Over 1000 km of range in the new battery-powered models from Mercedes‑Benz

Mercedes‑Benz has begun road testing solid-state batteries. The German automaker, in partnership with the American startup Factorial Energy, is conducting trials of a new prototype solid-state battery based on a modified EQS sedan. The tests started in February 2025 and are taking place in the United Kingdom. This is the first Mercedes-Benz vehicle equipped with lithium-metal cells using a solid electrolyte, developed in collaboration with Mercedes‑AMG HPP, a tech division previously involved in Formula 1 projects.

The new batteries offer around a 25% increase in driving range compared to lithium-ion counterparts of the same size and weight. For instance, the EQS 450+ with a 118 kWh battery delivers a WLTP range of approximately 820 km, while the solid-state version exceeds 1000 km (~620 miles). The energy density reaches up to 450 Wh/kg at the cell level. Instead of a liquid electrolyte, the battery uses a solid sulfide-based component, enhancing safety, reducing weight, and minimizing the need for active cooling.

Mercedes’ Head of Technical Development, Mark Schaefer, confirmed the company’s readiness to bring the technology to mass production “by the end of the decade” — i.e., by 2030. According to the company, the new battery design will significantly reduce EV production costs by simplifying components and boosting energy efficiency. The development of the Solstice batteries is being carried out jointly with Factorial Energy; in summer 2024, the startup delivered the first B‑samples of its proprietary FEST® technology to Mercedes for lab testing. In addition to Mercedes, Factorial collaborates with other manufacturers, including Hyundai and Stellantis, while other key players like BMW, Toyota, and Nissan are also advancing their own solid-state battery technologies with targets set for 2030 rollout.

Meanwhile, leading battery giants such as BYD and CATL continue to refine semi-solid-state solutions as interim steps toward the full-scale commercialization of true solid-state batteries.

Mercedes‑Benz has achieved a technological breakthrough by moving beyond laboratory research and initiating real-world road testing of a vehicle powered by lithium-metal solid-state cells. With a driving range exceeding 1000 km and energy density reaching 450 Wh/kg, the technology demonstrates impressive real-world potential. Mass production is expected by 2030, following the scaling of manufacturing and optimization of control and cooling systems. Reduced costs, improved safety, and exponential gains in efficiency position solid-state batteries as a cornerstone of the future of electric mobility.

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