BMW Powers Up Batteries

The Future of BMW Batteries

BMW is taking a leap into the future with its latest tech advancement, a prototype i7 powered by solid state batteries. Developed in collaboration with the battery experts at Solid Power, this new i7 prototype is aimed at testing in and around Munich.

Solid state batteries are like the holy grail of battery tech right now. They promise higher energy densities which might mean either smaller battery packs or a significantly longer driving range, potentially without any added weight. Improved performance and safety? You bet that’s on the list too.

Testing Grounds

BMW has kept details under wraps but hinted that the testing phase will closely monitor factors such as cell expansion and temperature regulation. The aim is to gather data on how these batteries integrate into an entire battery pack in real-world conditions, which will be instrumental as they iron out the kinks before production.

And BMW isn’t alone in this pursuit. Automakers like Mercedes and Stellantis are also tapping into solid state technology. Mercedes, for example, rolled out a prototype that reportedly has a staggering 621-mile range. Stellantis is expected to field-test its Dodge Charger Daytona EV prototypes later this year.

Driving Experience

Driving an i7 equipped with a solid state battery is bound to be intriguing. While not widely available yet, the anticipation is that they’ll offer a smoother ride experience. Think of how electric vehicles are typically quieter and more efficient—that’s expected to be enhanced even further with solid state technology. Imagine the refinement of a typical BMW driving experience but with an even longer range and potentially faster charging capabilities.

It’s not all rosy just yet, though. Rolling these batteries into a production model is complex and will require further refinement to make them commercially viable. However, BMW plans to remain on the cutting edge throughout this evolution, as emphasized by their battery expert, Martin Schuster. By maintaining an open mindset and building on partnerships with companies like Solid Power, BMW aims to keep pioneering advancements in battery technology.

Looking Ahead

There’s no timeline for when these batteries will become mainstream in BMW models, as the technology is still maturing. But for those in the market for a new ride in the near future, it’s something to keep an eye on. Solid state tech has the potential to rewrite the script on electric vehicles, offering longer driving ranges, reduced charging times, and greater safety.

It’s an exciting time in automotive innovation, with BMW, Mercedes, and Stellantis all vying to usher in the next era of energy-efficient mobility.