Mercedes-Benz and ProLogium have signed an agreement to test a new generation of battery cells. The automaker will receive priority access to ProLogium’s so-called Gen4 cells. According to ProLogium, the technology is a lithium-ceramic battery designed to combine characteristics of solid-state and liquid-electrolyte batteries. Whether the technology will eventually be used in production vehicles remains open.
The cells will first undergo extensive electrical, thermal, and safety testing. These tests will be carried out at Mercedes-Benz facilities and at external testing institutes. The automaker plans to use the results to assess the technology’s suitability for future vehicle applications.
Gen4 battery aims to combine characteristics of solid-state and liquid-electrolyte batteries
ProLogium refers to the technology as a “Superfluidized Inorganic Next-Generation Lithium Ceramic Battery.” According to the company, the Gen4 platform is intended to combine high energy density, high charging performance, and safety with scalable manufacturing.
The design includes a non-flammable inorganic electrolyte, ceramic separators, and a proprietary safety mechanism. ProLogium also cites fast-charging capability, high power output, and good low-temperature performance.
Partnership dates back about ten years
Mercedes-Benz and ProLogium have been working together since 2016. The partnership has so far included development work and the testing of various cell formats. Mercedes-Benz is also an investor in ProLogium and is represented on the company’s board of directors.
ProLogium operates a factory in Taoyuan, Taiwan, where, according to the company, manufacturing processes have been validated at GWh scale. The site produces cells for development vehicles and further testing, among other applications. At the same time, the company is building a facility in Dunkirk, France. The first phase is designed for 4 GWh of annual production capacity. In the long term, ProLogium is targeting up to 44 GWh.
