Stellantis is betting on solid state batteries from Factorial to improve EV range and lower costs.
Stellantis N.V. is taking a major leap forward in electric vehicle technology through an expanded partnership with solid-state battery pioneer Factorial Inc. The collaboration, building on Stellantis’ initial US$75 million investment in 2021, aims to revolutionize EV performance with next-generation battery technology.
In a groundbreaking announcement, the companies revealed plans to launch a demonstration fleet of all-new Dodge Charger Daytona vehicles equipped with Factorial’s advanced solid-state batteries by 2026. This real-world testing initiative marks a crucial step toward commercializing solid-state battery technology in mainstream electric vehicles.
Breakthrough Battery Technology
At the heart of this partnership is Factorial’s proprietary FEST® solid-state battery technology, which delivers an impressive energy density exceeding 390 Wh/kg. This innovative battery solution offers several key advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries:
- Higher energy density for extended range
- Reduced overall vehicle weight
- Enhanced performance capabilities
- Potential for lower total vehicle costs
Integration with STLA Large Platform
Stellantis has chosen its STLA Large multi-energy platform as the testing ground for this cutting-edge technology. This platform, which supports high-volume electric SUVs and performance vehicles, is central to Stellantis’ ambitious Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan. The STLA Large platform encompasses prestigious brands including:
- Jeep
- Dodge
- Chrysler
- Alfa Romeo
- Maserati
With a global production capacity of up to two million vehicles, the platform provides an ideal foundation for implementing this revolutionary battery technology.
Industry Leadership Perspectives
Ned Curic, Stellantis’ Chief Engineering and Technology Officer, emphasized the significance of the demonstration fleet: “This milestone represents a crucial step in validating Factorial’s battery solution within our STLA Large platform. Our goal is to deliver improved performance, extended driving ranges, and faster charging times to our customers in the near future.”
Factorial’s CEO and Co-Founder, Siyu Huang, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership’s potential impact on EV adoption: “We believe solid-state technology will be instrumental in driving the next generation of electric vehicles, offering enhanced performance and cost benefits.”
Future Implications
This collaboration between Stellantis and Factorial underscores the growing importance of solid-state battery technology in the automotive industry’s electric future. As automakers race to develop more efficient and powerful EVs, solid-state batteries are emerging as a promising solution to current limitations in battery technology.
The partnership’s success could potentially accelerate the widespread adoption of electric vehicles by addressing key consumer concerns about range, performance, and cost. With the demonstration fleet scheduled for 2026, both companies are positioning themselves at the forefront of automotive innovation and sustainable transportation solutions.
