Alliance Targets Challenges in Solid-State Battery Mass Production
South Korean battery manufacturer SK On and U.S.-based solid-state battery technology company Factorial Energy announced on July 29 the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to jointly assess how Factorial’s FEST solid-state battery technology can be integrated into SK On’s global manufacturing network. The alliance aims to address the technical and cost challenges of mass-producing solid-state batteries, offering the electric vehicle industry solutions with higher energy density and faster charging capabilities.
Factorial CEO Siyu Huang stated, "A battery breakthrough only matters if it can be manufactured at scale." She emphasized that SK On’s advanced battery manufacturing facilities worldwide will be critical in shaping how solid-state battery technology integrates into global production ecosystems. While the two companies have not yet disclosed a specific timeline for mass production or investment figures, they will prioritize evaluating adjustments to existing production lines to meet the unique requirements of solid-state battery manufacturing processes.
FEST Battery Performance Validated by Automakers, Leading in Range and Charging
Factorial’s 77Ah FEST solid-state battery has entered real-world vehicle testing. Stellantis began testing the battery in North America last month, integrating it into its STLA Large platform and powering a Dodge Charger Daytona prototype. According to test data released by Stellantis last year, the FEST battery achieved an energy density of 375 Wh/kg over more than 600 cycles and maintained stable performance across extreme temperatures ranging from -30°C to 45°C. Additionally, the battery can charge from 15% to 90% in just 18 minutes and supports a 4C discharge rate, demonstrating its advantages in fast charging and high-power output.
Mercedes-Benz also drove a modified EQS powered by Factorial’s solid-state battery cells last fall, achieving a range of 1,200 kilometers on a single charge, a milestone in the industry. Mercedes-Benz Chief Technology Officer Markus Schäfer described Factorial’s battery technology as a potential "gamechanger" for electric vehicles. Beyond Mercedes-Benz, Factorial is collaborating with automakers such as Hyundai Motor Group, Kia, and Stellantis to advance the commercialization of solid-state batteries.
SK On’s Production Capacity and Material Partnerships Strengthen Supply Chain
SK On currently supplies EV batteries to Hyundai Motor Group, Ford, and Volkswagen, with a global annual production capacity exceeding 200 GWh, including approximately 100 GWh in the United States. The alliance with Factorial combines SK On’s manufacturing expertise with Factorial’s technological advantages to accelerate the mass production of solid-state batteries. SK On stated that both companies will jointly evaluate adjustments to existing production lines to accommodate the specific requirements of solid-state battery manufacturing.
In materials development, Factorial partnered with South Korea’s POSCO FUTURE M last December to co-develop materials for all-solid-state batteries. This alliance with SK On further strengthens the complete supply chain layout from materials to manufacturing. Industry experts widely believe that if solid-state batteries can be successfully mass-produced, they will significantly enhance the range and safety of electric vehicles. However, challenges remain, including the stability of solid electrolytes and manufacturing costs.
Despite the promising outlook for solid-state battery commercialization, the industry still faces uncertainties. Both Factorial and SK On have stated they will continue optimizing technology and processes to achieve large-scale application of solid-state batteries. This alliance marks a significant step toward the mass production of solid-state battery technology and offers the electric vehicle industry more efficient and safer power solutions.
