The BMW Group and Solid Power have begun testing large-format, all-solid-state battery (ASSB) cells in a BMW i7 test vehicle operating in the Munich area. This collaboration, initiated under a technology transfer agreement in 2022, aims to evaluate the potential of ASSB technology to deliver higher energy density and extended driving range in a compact system.
The test vehicle utilizes pure ASSB cells developed by Solid Power, featuring a sulfide-based electrolyte. These cells are housed within a battery pack that combines BMW’s Gen5 prismatic cell modules with innovative module concepts designed to manage cell expansion, pressure control, and temperature regulation. Over the coming months, data collected from the road trials will inform further refinements in pack integration and system performance.
John Van Scoter, President and CEO of Solid Power, commented that the demonstration represents the first time truly all-solid-state cells have been road-tested in a production-style vehicle, underscoring the company’s commitment to advancing sulfide electrolyte innovation for future electric vehicles.
Martin Schuster, Vice President of Battery Cell and Cell Module at the BMW Group, noted that the BMW i7 ASSB test vehicle exemplifies the company’s technology-open approach. He highlighted BMW’s ongoing efforts to accelerate new cell technologies by collaborating with partners such as Solid Power, reinforcing the Group’s strategy to maintain access to cutting-edge developments in battery cell research.
This project builds on a long-standing partnership that dates back to 2016 under an extended Joint Development Agreement. BMW’s investment in Solid Power in May 2021 and the decision to deepen the collaboration in late 2022 have laid the groundwork for further advancement. Under a research and development license, BMW will operate a solid cell prototype line at its Cell Manufacturing Competence Center (CMCC) in Parsdorf, leveraging Solid Power’s expertise.
Since 2008, and more recently through its Battery Cell Competence Center in Munich, BMW has expanded its cell technology capabilities across the entire value chain—from research and design to production readiness. Collaborating within a network of around 300 partners, BMW aims to incorporate ASSB and other emerging battery technologies into competitive storage solutions.
Source: BMW Group Press Release
