Automakers and battery manufacturers are increasingly turning to silicon anodes to improve electric vehicle (EV) battery range and charging performance, a shift that could redefine the industry’s approach to energy storage.
“The evolution towards silicon anodes is now starting,” George Cintra, battery R&D director at General Motors, told InsideEVs. “You’re going to see more silicon incorporated into EV batteries because it provides added range and also helps [EVs] fast-charge.”
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Currently, EV battery anodes primarily consist of graphite, but experts say higher silicon content could boost energy density and reduce inefficiencies in the supply chain. Silicon anodes have been present in small amounts for years, but their adoption is expected to increase.
Scaling up production remains a challenge due to the specialized and resource-intensive processes required. However, companies are making progress. Taiwanese battery startup ProLogium, for instance, announced last year that its 100% silicon composite anode achieved an energy density of 321 Wh/kg—well above industry standards. Certification tests also showed its 55 kWh pack could charge from 5% to 60% in five minutes and 80% in 8.5 minutes.
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American battery startups, including Amprius, Group 14, and Sila Nanotechnologies, are also advancing silicon anode technology. Mercedes-Benz plans to incorporate Sila’s anodes into its electric G-Class, and General Motors may follow suit for its larger EVs.
“As the new materials come on board, like silicon anodes and the new cathodes, the battery sizes will shrink,” Cintra said. “As volumes increase, the adoption rate will increase, and you will see prices come down.”