Munich, Germany – The BMW Group is now testing all-solid-state battery (ASSB) cells from U.S.-based Solid Power in a BMW i7 prototype vehicle. The test vehicle is currently operating in the Munich area and marks a major milestone in BMW’s drive to explore advanced battery technologies.
Solid-state batteries offer a key advantage: higher energy density in a smaller, lighter package compared to current lithium-ion batteries. This could lead to longer driving ranges for electric vehicles without adding weight.
BMW and Solid Power have been working together since 2022 under a technology transfer agreement aimed at advancing ASSB development. Both companies see solid-state batteries as a breakthrough for electric vehicles (EVs).
“Solid Power is extremely proud that our partnership with BMW has led to the first real demonstration of all-solid-state battery cells in a vehicle,” said John Van Scoter, CEO of Solid Power. “We remain committed to advancing sulfide electrolyte technology to support the future of EVs.”
Martin Schuster, Vice President of Battery Cell and Cell Module at BMW Group, added: “Our i7 ASSB test vehicle on the road shows our open approach to new technologies. We are pushing forward with new battery cell developments and gaining valuable experience from partners like Solid Power.”
The test battery in the BMW i7 combines the company’s existing Gen5 design—using prismatic cells—with a new module layout tailored for solid-state cells. This setup will help BMW evaluate key factors such as cell expansion, pressure control, and temperature management during operation.
The cells used in the test vehicle are based on sulfide electrolytes. BMW expects the ongoing tests to yield crucial insights over the coming months, helping them better understand how to fully integrate this new technology into future vehicles.
These solid-state cells were developed and produced by Solid Power, with close collaboration from BMW’s own battery experts. However, further development is still needed to make the technology viable for mass production in a competitive battery system.
BMW and Solid Power have been working together since 2016 through a joint development agreement. In 2021, BMW increased its investment in Solid Power during a funding round to deepen their collaboration.
By the end of 2022, both companies expanded their partnership. BMW gained access to a prototype cell production line at its Cell Manufacturing Competence Center (CMCC) in Parsdorf. This facility will allow BMW to build and test solid-state cells using Solid Power’s licensed technology and know-how.
BMW has been investing in battery cell research since 2008. In 2019, it opened the Battery Cell Competence Center (BCCC) in Munich, which handles everything from research to production. The automaker works with around 300 partners worldwide—including startups, universities, and major tech firms—to speed up innovation in battery technology.
The collaboration with Solid Power supports BMW’s long-term battery strategy: to develop cutting-edge technologies with leading industry partners. This strong global network ensures BMW stays at the forefront of battery innovation.
