(R)EVOLUTION - Solid-state batteries

Solid-state batteries – Capacity and ultra-fast charging

At the heart of the electric mobility revolution, the battery is the focus of attention. It is both the invisible engine and the main limitation. For several years, engineers and researchers around the world have been working to push the boundaries to offer greater range, safety and charging speed. Among the most promising avenues is that of solid electrolyte batteries, often referred to as solid-state batteries.

Unlike current lithium-ion batteries, which use a liquid electrolyte to transport ions between the anode and cathode, solid-state batteries rely on a solid electrolyte. This seemingly subtle change in material opens up immense possibilities. It allows for much higher energy density, meaning more energy can be stored in a smaller volume. In practical terms, this means significantly greater range for motorists without increasing the size or weight of the battery.

Safety is another major advantage. By eliminating the often flammable liquid electrolyte, solid batteries significantly reduce the risk of overheating or fire. This feature makes them particularly suitable for automotive use, where reliability and robustness are essential.

Charging times are also set to be revolutionised. Whereas a conventional battery can sometimes take several tens of minutes or even hours to charge, solid-state technologies could enable a significant range to be recovered in just a few minutes, bringing electric recharging closer to the speed of refuelling.

For now, these batteries are still in the development phase. Manufacturers and laboratories are working to resolve the technical challenges associated with large-scale production, durability and production costs. However, many manufacturers are already announcing promising prototypes, and the first concrete applications could see the light of day within the next decade.

If they live up to their promise, solid-state batteries could be a decisive step forward for electric mobility. Not only would they offer greatly increased range, but also enhanced safety and ultra-fast charging, accelerating the transition to zero-emission mobility.

Finally, they remind us that the history of the automobile is marked by technological challenges: behind every innovation lies the desire to imagine a more practical, safer and more sustainable future. Solid-state batteries could well be the next big step.