BMW is one automaker hoping to put solid-state batteries into production by 2030
Current lithium-ion batteries have several disadvantages. Their usable capacity diminishes over time, they put out a lot of heat, which means they can require cooling systems that add even more weight, and because they contain liquid electrolyte they’re not stable and can catch fire or explode. Solid state batteries replace the liquid or gel electrolyte with a solid form. The also have up to 10 times the energy density of lithium-ion batteries, meaning they’re smaller and lighter, and should charge faster, be safer in accidents and have a longer lifespan. The catch is that
are currently difficult to produce because companies are struggling to design a solid electrolyte that is chemically inert, conducts ions well between electrodes and won’t crack from expansion and contraction during use.in 2025, which others in the industry think is overly optimistic.