Stellantis N.V. and pioneering solid-state battery company Factorial Energy today announced a significant leap forward in electric vehicle (EV) battery technology with the successful validation of Factorial’s automotive-sized FEST (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology) solid-state battery cells. This achievement marks a crucial step towards bringing higher-performing, safer, and more efficient batteries to the mass EV market.

The validated 77Ah FEST cells demonstrated exceptional performance characteristics, achieving an energy density of 375Wh/kg while undergoing over 600 cycles and progressing towards stringent automotive qualification standards. This milestone is particularly noteworthy for a large-format lithium-metal solid-state battery, highlighting the maturity and potential of Factorial's technology.

One of the most compelling advantages of these solid-state batteries is their ability to significantly reduce charging times. The validated cells demonstrated the capability to charge from 15% to over 90% in a mere 18 minutes at room temperature, a game-changer for EV owners seeking convenience. Furthermore, the cells exhibited high power output with discharge rates reaching up to 4C, ensuring robust performance and responsiveness for electric vehicles.

"Reaching this level of performance reflects the strengths of our collaboration with Factorial," stated Ned Curic, Stellantis Chief Engineering and Technology Officer. "This breakthrough puts us at the forefront of the solid-state revolution, but we are not stopping there. We continue working together to push the boundaries and deliver even more advanced solutions, bringing us closer to lighter, more efficient batteries that reduce costs for our customers."

Factorial's innovative approach, combining scientific engineering with AI-driven tools, has led to the development of an advanced electrolyte formulation that enables the battery to operate effectively across a wide temperature range, from a frigid -30°C (-22°F) to a sweltering 45°C (113°F). This capability overcomes previous limitations associated with solid-state batteries and opens up possibilities for consistent performance in diverse climates.

Siyu Huang, CEO of Factorial Energy, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating, "Battery development is about compromise. While optimizing one feature is simple, balancing high energy density, cycle life, fast charging, and safety in an automotive-sized battery with OEM validation is a breakthrough. This achievement with Stellantis is bringing next-generation battery technology from research to reality."

The collaboration extends beyond cell validation. Stellantis and Factorial are actively working together on battery pack design, leveraging the unique characteristics of the FEST® technology to optimize pack architecture. This close cooperation aims to reduce the overall weight of the battery system and improve its efficiency, directly contributing to increased vehicle range and the development of more sustainable and affordable EV solutions for consumers.