Massachusetts Battery Startup Takes Major Step Toward Making Gas Cars Obsolete
A small startup in Massachusetts has made significant progress in developing a solid-state battery that could potentially make electric vehicles cheaper, safer, and more durable than gas-powered cars, according to a report by Jack Ewing for The New York Times.
Factorial Energy, co-founded by Siyu Huang and Alex Yu, has successfully road-tested their solid-state battery in a Mercedes EQS sedan after over a decade of research and development. This innovation eliminates the flammable liquid electrolytes found in conventional lithium-ion batteries, offering faster charging, greater range, and improved safety. However, manufacturing these batteries poses significant challenges.
With backing from major companies like Mercedes, Hyundai, Stellantis, and LG Chem, Factorial Energy has improved its factory yield from 10% to 85%. The company plans to begin fleet testing in preparation for a potential commercial release by 2028.
Solid-state batteries represent one of the most promising technologies for transforming the transportation sector. Unlike today’s electric vehicle batteries, which rely on flammable liquid components, charge slowly, and are heavy, solid-state batteries could charge in minutes, travel longer distances, and significantly reduce fire risk. They also enable the production of lighter vehicles and cleaner air.
However, building solid-state batteries at scale has proven to be a complex task. These cells are sensitive, difficult to manufacture consistently, and can be ruined by minor defects. Factorial Energy’s progress is significant because they have not only developed a functional battery but have also manufactured enough units to integrate into a vehicle.
If Factorial Energy or its competitors succeed in mass-producing this technology, the impact could be substantial. The development is related to other recent findings that EV battery life may exceed earlier estimates by 40%.
