Combustion engines may become obsolete as new battery technologies revolutionize mobility

Manufacturers are pursuing different strategies to improve battery performance. These range from increased energy density, improved charging times, higher durability, use of sustainable materials to the implementation of AI for smart battery management. 

Stellantis

In April, Stellantis and Factorial Energy announced the successful certification of FEST® solid-state battery cells. These cells provide an energy density of 375 Wh/kg and enable fast charging from 15% to 90% in just 18 minutes. They are suitable for temperatures ranging from -30°C to 45°C and have already completed more than 600 charging cycles in testing. Stellantis plans to install this technology in a demonstration fleet by 2026.

Volkswagen aims to double the energy density of solid-state cells

Volkswagen is collaborating with QuantumScape to further develop a new separator for batteries that, according to a statement from QuantumScape, will double the energy density of solid-state cells while simultaneously reducing battery production time tenfold.

GM develops cobalt-free battery

General Motors and LG Energy Solution are jointly developing lithium manganese-rich (LMR) battery cells that utilize a high manganese content and are designed to be completely cobalt-free. The technology also promises higher energy densities with significantly lower material costs, thereby significantly improving the cost-effectiveness of electric vehicles.

Longer lifespan thanks to AI management

Battery life is also improving significantly. According to TechFundingNews, Munich-based start-up Pulsetrain utilizes AI-supported management and integrated electronics to slow down cell aging by up to 80%, enabling service lives of up to 18 years.

Environmental and economic advantages for electromobility

These technological advances are intended not only to increase sustainability but also to shake up the economic viability of electromobility. The new batteries enable either longer ranges or smaller, lighter batteries, thereby making electromobility both suitable and affordable for the mass market. As a result, the combustion engine may become increasingly less important.

Diversification of engine technology

Continuous advances in battery technology, particularly in terms of range, charging times and service life, are increasingly challenging the dominance of the combustion engine. While electric vehicles are already competitive in many areas, the combustion engine may continue to remain relevant in certain segments and regions. Hence, the future of mobility is likely to be characterized by increasing diversification of engine technologies.