Solid-state batteries are more efficient, boasting higher energy density than lithium-ion batteries. They’re also safer, as the solid electrolytes mean there is less risk of leakage and, consequently, fire risk.
Last month, BMW received the first solid-state battery prototypes from its partner, Solid Power, for the automaker’s Neue Klasse generation of electric vehicles, which will be introduced in 2025. With this recent development, however, it appears that the first Neue Klasse EVs will be introduced without the new battery technology.
However, there are other possibilities to explore, such as dual-chemistry battery architecture, such as that which recently got a BMW iX to travel 600 miles on a single charge.