Solid Power, a developer of solid-state battery cells, has reached a significant milestone by delivering its first A Sample EV cells to BMW, according to information disclosed in Solid Power’s Q3 annual report. This marks the initiation of the formal automotive qualification process for the cutting-edge battery cells, which will also be integrated into BMW’s demonstration programme.
John Van Scoter, President and Chief Executive Officer of Solid Power, expressed the company’s achievement, stating, “It is a reflection of our team’s strong execution that we produced and delivered our first A Sample EV cells for BMW a little over a week ago, marking a major milestone for Solid Power.” He further emphasized the excitement surrounding the deliveries, the commencement of the qualification process, and the pivotal role these A-1 EV cells will play in supporting BMW’s demo car program.
BMW, having secured a research and development license from Solid Power, is poised to unveil its first demonstration vehicle featuring Solid Power’s technology before the midpoint of the decade. The collaboration includes BMW’s establishment of a prototype line for solid-state battery cells at its Cell Manufacturing Competence Centre in Parsdorf, near Munich, Germany.
Founded in 2011 as a spin-off from the University of Colorado, Solid Power has emerged as one of the world’s leading developers of solid-state battery cells. The company completed the installation of its pilot production line in the summer of 2022 and aims to produce around 15,000 cells per year at full capacity. Series production is anticipated to commence in 2026.
Solid Power’s solid-state battery platform, announced in May 2021, features a sulphide-based solid electrolyte material and leverages conventional NMC cathodes. The company aims to achieve a gravimetric energy density of 390 Wh/kg with a combination of a silicon anode and a solid electrolyte. Alternatively, with a lithium-metal anode replacing the silicon anode, the cell, still utilizing NCM-811 cathode, is projected to achieve an energy density of 440 Wh/kg. Solid Power’s innovative approach has garnered support not only from BMW but also from notable backers such as Ford.
