BMW's Current EVs Powered by Fifth-Gen Cells, Future Cars to Boast Sixth-Gen and Solid-State Tech
Get ready to witness some major changes in BMW's electric vehicles (EVs)! The German automaker is gearing up to introduce sixth-generation battery cells in its upcoming models like the i5, i7, ix, and i4, predicted to debut in 2025. These advanced cells will not only replace prismatic cells with round ones, but they will also offer a 30% increased range and 30% faster charging times. All this while reducing CO2 emissions by 60%!
Eager to embrace this tech revolution, BMW has teamed up with technology partner Solid Power to develop this future-forward battery technology at its battery center in Parsdorf, near Munich. In fact, an initial process development line is already being established, with plans for operation in the second quarter of 2024.
But don't get your hopes too high just yet if you're dreaming of EVs powered by solid-state batteries. BMW's Peter Lamp, who's been championing battery development for years, notes that full development and industrialization will take a few more years, possibly not happening till the end of the decade.
Now, let's dive into the thrilling prospect of solid-state batteries, as shown in the specially-equipped BMW iX EV prototype! In collaboration with One (Our Next Energy) from Michigan, they developed a unique Gemini battery with two parts. The first part provides daily travel range of 240 km, powered by a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) cell. On longer trips, the second part, featuring high-energy density anode-free cells, adds an additional 700 km of range potential.
This experimental Gemini battery can reduce lithium consumption by up to 20%, slash graphite use by 60%, and minimize the need for nickel and cobalt. With a 185+ kWh output, the iX prototype weighs an impressive 710 kg and boasts maximum output of 345 kW/469 hp. But remember, the current Gemini technology is still in the prototype phase; development will continue and improvements are bound to follow.
As for BMW's competitors, BYD and CATL are also making significant strides in solid-state battery improvement. But, the company won't reveal its timeline for solid-state batteries just yet, ensuring the element of surprise for when the vehicles hit the road.
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Stay tuned as BMW continues to redefine the future of EV technology!
