BMW Begins Testing Of i7 With All-Solid-State Battery Cells

BMW Group has commenced testing all-solid-state battery (ASSB) cells from Solid Power in an i7 vehicle in Munich. The research program aims to evaluate the performance of ASSB technology integrated into vehicles. This initiative follows a collaboration that began in 2016, with significant investments and agreements leading to technology transfer. The test assesses cell expansion, pressure management, and temperature control. BMW's Cell Manufacturing Competence Center is pivotal for future developments, highlighting their commitment to advancing battery technology alongside numerous partners.

Photo : TIMES DRIVE

BMW Begins Testing Of i7 With All-Solid-State Battery Cells

The BMW Group has begun testing all-solid-state battery (ASSB) cells supplied by Solid Power in a BMW i7 vehicle. The vehicle is being operated in the Munich region. The tests are part of a research program to study the characteristics of ASSB technology. The current test program is intended to generate data about the performance of ASSB cells when integrated into a vehicle. The companies plan to use the results for further development work.

Cell Integration & Technical Evaluation

The battery used in the test vehicle contains large-format ASSB cells developed by Solid Power. These cells have been installed using existing battery construction methods combined with new module concepts. The test focuses on how the cells expand, how pressure is managed, and how temperature is controlled during use.

Project Background & Development Timeline

BMW and Solid Power have been working together since 2016 through a joint development agreement. In 2021, BMW made an investment in Solid Power. In 2022, both companies signed a technology transfer agreement to support further research. Under this agreement, BMW received a license to use Solid Power’s cell design for in-house development.

Testing & Production Facilities

BMW is operating a prototype cell manufacturing line at its Cell Manufacturing Competence Center (CMCC) in Parsdorf. This facility will be used to carry out further development steps using the transferred cell technology.

Research & Coordination

Since 2008, BMW has been involved in battery cell research. Its Battery Cell Competence Center (BCCC) in Munich, set up in 2019, is responsible for activities including design, testing, and process development. The current ASSB project is coordinated through this center.

Partnership Network

The BMW Group is conducting this project as part of its broader cooperation with approximately 300 partners. These include companies, academic institutions, and other organizations involved in battery-related research and development.

Management’s Viewpoint

John Van Scoter, President and Chief Executive Officer of Solid Power, “Solid Power is extremely proud that our partnership with BMW has resulted in the first demonstration of truly all-solid-state battery cells in a vehicle. We believe in the promise of ASSB’s and continue to drive innovation of our sulfide electrolyte in support of that future for EV’s”.
Martin Schuster, Vice President Battery Cell and Cell Module at the BMW Group, said, “Our BMW i7 ASSB test vehicle on the road is a perfect example of the BMW Group’s technology-open mindset. We are continuously advancing the development of new battery cell technologies and are constantly expanding our know-how with valuable partners such as Solid Power”.

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