BMW Solid-State Battery: BMW Teams Up With Samsung to Speed Up Solid-State EV Batteries

BMW Solid-State Battery: BMW Teams Up With Samsung to Speed Up Solid-State EV Batteries

BMW Solid-State Battery development has gained significant momentum with the announcement of a new partnership involving Samsung SDI and Solid Power. This strategic alliance aims to fast-track the validation, testing, and commercial adoption of all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs). The BMW Solid-State Battery technology promises higher energy density, increased safety, faster charging, and lower costs compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. BMW is already testing the technology in a modified i7 and aims to debut its first ASSB-powered EV by the end of the decade.

Accelerating ASSB Development with Global Leaders

BMW is strategically consolidating expertise to overcome the remaining hurdles in commercializing ASSB technology.

• New Partnership: BMW expands its investment in solid-state technology by bringing in Samsung SDI to join its existing partnership with Solid Power.
• The Role of Solid Power: Solid Power will supply its sulfide-based solid electrolyte to Samsung SDI. This technology is designed for stability and conductivity.
• Samsung SDI’s Role: Samsung SDI will use the supplied solid electrolyte to manufacture the battery cells that will eventually be integrated into BMW’s test and production vehicles.
• Executive Confidence: Martin Schuster, VP Battery Cell and Cell Module at BMW, noted, “With Samsung SDI joining our partnership with Solid Power, we gain significant momentum on our path advancing the development of new battery cell technologies”.

The Advantages of BMW Solid-State Battery Technology

All-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) are widely regarded as the next frontier in EV battery development due to their superior characteristics.

• Higher Performance: ASSBs promise a range of at least 1,000 kilometers (supposedly twice that of a traditional battery).
• Safety and Efficiency: They offer increased safety compared to existing liquid-electrolyte batteries and are expected to be lighter and less expensive.
• Faster Charging: The technology promises much shorter charging times.
• Technological Competitiveness: Stella Joo-Young Go, Executive Vice President of ASSB Commercialisation at Samsung SDI, highlighted that this development will “ultimately lead to innovation in electric vehicles”.

Timeline and Testing

BMW is actively testing the technology with the goal of a major product launch within the next five years.

• Testing Underway: BMW is already testing the ASSB technology in a modified i7 sedan.
• Debut Goal: The German automaker is expected to debut its first ASSB electric vehicle by the end of the decade.

Final Thoughts

BMW’s reinforced partnership to advance BMW Solid-State Battery technology signals a serious commitment to overcoming the current limitations of lithium-ion batteries. By combining the expertise of Samsung SDI in cell manufacturing with Solid Power’s specialized electrolyte, BMW aims to gain a crucial competitive edge in the luxury EV market. The successful commercialization of ASSBs will be key to unlocking superior range, faster charging, and ultimately, accelerating the mass-market adoption of electric vehicles globally.

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