is already testing new batteries in its cars that promise to change everything

One of the greatest dramas of 100% battery-powered electric vehicles is that they are too heavy due to those same batteries. In practice, autonomy remains, despite great advances in this regard in recent years, very limited compared to passenger cars with internal combustion engines using gasoline and diesel fuel. The weight of lithium batteries has even forced some rules to change. promote the marketing of these vehicles by increasing the maximum weight limit of vehicles that can be driven with a B license to a GVW of more than 3,500 kg.

The situation may change, and largely thanks to the Stellantis business group, which, in collaboration with the high-tech company Factorial, has developed solid electrolyte battery that will revolutionize the electric vehicle market. In fact, there is already a Dodge Charger Daytona that is testing one of these batteries, and it could hit the market in less than two years, in 2026.

Lighter battery with longer autonomy

North American company Factorial will provide Stellantis with solid electrolyte batteries developed by its researchers and engineers, called FEST. It’s about electrolyte battery, which is cheaper than lithium-ion batteries, easier to produce and lighter, with greater autonomy and the ability to recharge faster (another limitation that keeps potential buyers away from electric vehicles is the time it takes for batteries to recharge).

The battery, which is being tested in the Dodge Charger Daytona sports car, has an energy density of 390 Wh/kg, which is higher than the most efficient lithium batteries currently available, which range from 300 to 350 Wh/kg. Thanks to this ability, Smaller solid-state batteries can provide the same autonomy as current ones. On the other hand, if they were the same size, we could travel up to 1000 km without recharging.

Advantages of FEST batteries

We’ve already mentioned the main advantages: they are lighter, provide more power, recharge faster and can be cheaper. To this we must add that They provide greater safety since there is no risk of fire when using solid electrolyte batteries.as is the case with lithium-ion. By reducing the cost of battery production, the price of electric vehicles in general is reduced.which is one of the main obstacles and limitations to the commercialization of electric vehicles.

Stellantis plans with FEST battery

Stellantis invested $75 million in Factorial in 2021and the FEST battery is largely the result of this investment. To use this battery, the business group selected the STLA Large multi-energy platform, which is used in a variety of electric SUVs and high-performance vehicles from brands such as Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Maserati. Initially, this battery will be used by more than two million vehicles once it has completed its testing period. Although the first step will be to install it in a Dodge Charger Daytona fleet to evaluate its performance in real-world conditions and make any necessary corrections.

Stellantis Chief Technology Officer Ned Couric said: “By integrating Factorial’s innovative battery solution into the STLA Large platform, we are confirming its potential to expand our EV portfolio, ensuring customers benefit from: “Higher performance, longer range and faster charging times.” for many years.” come.”