Solid-state batteries for cars are about to be commercialized. The Solid Power pilot production line has begun testing

Solid-state battery company Solid Power today announced a pilot production line for electric vehicles that will soon be shipped to automotive partners for testing. This move marks another solid step forward in the commercialization of solid-state lithium-ion batteries, which are expected to bring unprecedented range and safety to electric vehicles.

Solid-state batteries are different from liquid batteries. They do not have liquid or gel electrolytes. Their advantages are that they can provide longer driving range, shorter charging time, and lower fire risk than liquid batteries. These advantages have attracted many automakers to invest heavily. However, solid-state batteries face technical and cost issues in mass production. Now Solid Power is expected to become a solid-state battery company for automobiles that breaks through the limitations.

“We’ve proven that we can use industry-standard processes on this very flexible, learning, workhorse pilot [line]. Now we’re moving to the next phase of production,” said Doug Campbell, the company’s CEO.

The advent of the production line could mark a turning point for the U.S. battery industry. He added: “I’m not too familiar with battery supply developments in Korea and Japan, but from what I understand this will be one of the largest all-solid-state production facilities in the industry.”

The company went public through a SPAC in December after several rounds of financing. Solid Power is backed by a host of industry players including Ford, BMW and Hyundai. Battery maker A123 Systems; and the venture capital arms of Samsung, Equinor and Koch Industries also participated.