Factorial delivered B-samples of its 106+Ah lithium-metal solid-state battery cells to Mercedes-Benz as part of its ongoing joint development agreement with the manufacturer. According to Factorial, it has manufactured thousands of large-format solid-state batteries and shipped over 1,000 100+Ah solid-state battery cells to Mercedes-Benz as part of the A-sample phase. The B-samples will be integrated into modules and battery packs for extensive testing and optimization. This phase involves validating the module and pack designs against Mercedes-Benz’s strict performance specifications, the company said.

“We are thrilled to advance to the B-sample phase and to mark this milestone with a global automotive leader like Mercedes-Benz,” Siyu Huang, CEO and co-founder of Factorial, said. “This swift progression from A-sample to B-sample delivery in under a year highlights Factorial’s rapid innovation capabilities and we continue to push the envelope to accelerate the adoption of solid-state batteries in the automotive sector. As a U.S. cell maker, we believe our high energy density cell will help build more efficient and sustainable vehicles that will set new standards for electric vehicle range, cost and performance globally.”

The solid-state battery cells utilize Factorial’s proprietary FEST (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology) platform that includes a lithium-metal anode, which is the lightest metal on earth and enables a high energy density of 391Wh/kg, according to the company. Factorial said its batteries are manufactured using existing equipment from lithium-ion battery production, requiring minimal modifications.

In addition to Mercedes-Benz, Factorial has joint development agreements with Stellantis, Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation.