The Dodge Chargers equipped with semi-solid batteries could start circulating in 2026.
It is not completely a solid state, but it represents a step in the right direction.
Stellantis has announced its intention to launch a "demonstration fleet" of Dodge Charger Daytonas by 2026, which will feature solid-state battery technology. This technology promises to be lighter, have a higher energy density, and potentially contribute to the production of more affordable electric vehicles (EVs). The company believes that this demonstration fleet represents a "key next step" towards creating solid-state electric vehicles that will be available to consumers.
The new vehicles will be built on the STLA Large EV platform, which is designed to support more models beyond the Chargers set to debut next year. If the demonstration phase is successful, there is a possibility that other brands within the group, such as Maserati and Jeep, may also adopt this battery technology.
It is noteworthy that Stellantis refers to "solid-state battery technology" rather than simply discussing solid-state batteries, because the Chargers will utilize semi-solid batteries. This implies that they still contain liquid electrolytes. This hybrid approach offers advantages such as reduced weight and increased range, although it does not completely eliminate the fire risk associated with traditional lithium batteries.
Factorial, the company producing the batteries that Stellantis will employ, claims that its semi-solid technology could increase the range of electric vehicles by up to 50% compared to current EVs. Additionally, these batteries are compatible with existing lithium-ion battery manufacturing infrastructure, making production easier and more cost-effective compared to a transition to fully solid-state batteries.
The development of solid-state batteries has proven to be a challenge in the industry, and not all companies have made significant advances. For instance, Nissan had promised to produce "fully solid-state" EVs by 2028, but tempered that statement this year. Fisker, on its part, abandoned its efforts in 2021. However, Volkswagen, which was originally set to provide the platform to Fisker, has announced that its batteries have passed a durability test.
Stellantis's announcement is indicative of progress in this field. Other companies are also making strides. Hyundai and Mercedes are investors in Factorial, and the latter claims it will have semi-solid batteries in electric vehicles by 2026. Honda plans to introduce solid-state EVs in the second half of the decade, while Toyota's plan includes mass production of solid-state batteries that will enable more than 1000 kilometers of range by 2028. In China, IM Motor launched the L6, an EV powered by semi-solid batteries in April, and its sister brand, MG, has also announced that it will present a similar vehicle in Europe next year.
