BMW teams up with Samsung to develop solid-state battery technology

South Korean battery and electronic materials manufacturer Samsung SDI has joined efforts by BMW and US-based Solid Power to develop all-solid-state battery (ASSB) technology.

Solid state batteries use a solid electrolyte instead of the liquid electrolyte found in conventional lithium-ion batteries, and are also expected to offer increased safety and energy density, potentially enabling longer driving range in electric vehicles (EVs).

BMW and Solid Power, a producer of all-solid-state rechargeable batteries for EVs and mobile power markets, have been working together on ASSB technology since 2016.

The two companies deepened their partnership at the end of 2022 with a technology transfer agreement. Additionally, BMW will operate a solid cell prototype line at its Cell Manufacturing Competence Center (CMCC) in Parsdorf based on a research and development license, as well as the experience and expertise of Solid Power.

Earlier this year, the two companies integrated Solid Power’s largest-format pure ASSB cells into a BMW i7 technology test vehicle. The ASSB cells were developed and manufactured by Solid Power in collaboration with experts from the BMW Group and utilise prismatic cells and sulphide-based electrolytes integrated into the battery pack.

Fast-forward, and the two companies announced last week a new strategic collaboration with Samsung SDI to pursue development and validation of a demonstration vehicle powered by ASSB technology.

Under the partnership, Solid Power will provide its sulphide-based solid electrolyte to Samsung SDI, which Samsung SDI will integrate into separator and/or catholyte, and then use to build battery cells.