FEV Claims BEV Range and Charging Breakthrough With Solid-State Tech

Automotive supply giant FEV claims to be close to a solid-state battery breakthrough that could allow range and recharging times to rival those of internal-combustion-engine vehicles.

The German engineering company announces its collaboration with solid-state battery specialist, ProLogium, is bringing commercial production capabilities to ProLogium’s

large-footprint lithium ceramic battery (LLCB).

This battery’s anode technology consists of 100% silicon composite material and claims a 10 times higher capacity density compared to the graphite anodes used to date.

Depending its vehicle application, the LLCB power pack claims a weight saving of up to 300 kg (660 lbs.) or a maximum range of 620 miles (998 km) with an industry-average-size pack.

FEV claims the new battery reduces the fast-charging time by more than 80%, charging from 5% to 60% within five minutes and claiming a range of 186 miles (300 km). A further three minutes brings up 80% of total charge to lift the range to 248 miles (399 km), vying with refueling times for ICE-powered vehicles.

Production costs are also claimed to be cut and, thanks to the slim shape of the battery cells, automaker clients can apply space-saving designs for future BEVs and hybrid vehicles.

Its solid-state electrolyte technology also boasts other advantages over the current use of liquid electrolytes being non-flammable and increasing safety against thermal runaway. It also prevents potential short circuits caused by leaking electrolyte fluid in the event of a spill.

Dr Thomas Hülshorst, global vice-president for electric powertrain at FEV, says: “For the LLCB solution, we have successfully combined ProLogium´s know-how in the field of cell development with our development, system and testing expertise. The modular design of the battery also makes maintenance much easier, saves costs and allows individual cells to be replaced and recycled. LLCBs therefore have a positive environmental impact and make a significant contribution to preserving the value of future electric vehicles.”