European car giant Stellantis will launch a fleet of new Dodge Charger Daytona electric vehicles (EVs) in 2026 which will be equipped with solid-state batteries from Factorial.
Stellantis and Factorial first partnered in late 2021 to jointly develop solid-state batteries for EVs, with a focus on advancing Factorial’s high-voltage traction solid-state battery technology. Stellantis also invested $US75 million in the Massachusetts headquartered company.
The demonstration fleet would enable the validation of Factorial’s technology and assessment of its real-world driving performance.
The Daytonas will be equipped with cells based on Factorial’s proprietary FEST solid-state battery technology, which delivers a specific energy density of over 390Wh/kg and offers a number of advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries.
These include higher energy density, reduced weight, improved performance, and the potential for further reduction in total vehicle cost over time.
“We believe solid-state technology can play a crucial role in enabling the next generation of EVs with improved performance and reduced costs,” said Siyu Huang, Factorial’s CEO and co-founder.
Stellantis will build the fleet of Dodge Charger Daytona vehicles on its STLA Large multi-energy platform due, reportedly, on the platforms “focus on high-volume electric SUVs and performance vehicles.”
The STLA Large platform is used by Stellantis brands such as Dodge, Chrysler, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati.
“This demonstration fleet is an important milestone in our partnership with Factorial,” said Ned Curic, chief engineering and technology officer at Stellantis.
“By integrating Factorial’s innovative battery solution into the STLA Large platform, we are validating its potential to enhance our electric vehicle lineup, ensuring customers benefit from improved performance, longer driving ranges and faster charging times in the coming years.”
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.