BMW is developing electric batteries with 20% more capacity

The solid-state technology developed by BMW will reach the market in 2026. These batteries would have greater capacity and would be lighter and safer.

By 2026, BMW expects to take a big step forward in battery development for electric vehicles. The Bavarian manufacturer’s idea is to incorporate solid-state batteries into its future zero-emission models, which would increase their capacity by between 15 and 20%.

These revolutionary batteries would use lithium-ion technology (a fairly common system today), but would replace liquid electrolytes with solid ones. The benefits of this change include greater capacity, lower weight and a reduction in the number of protective elements; being solid, there is no risk of fire. Their greater safety also helps make their packaging and housing simpler.

These solid lithium-ion batteries are still in development and ten years remain before they reach production; they must still undergo long-term durability testing. In 2018, however, BMW will present the evolution of current batteries. These units could be incorporated in the future into the Mini Cooper E and into the 100% electric version of the next X3.

BMW will continue developing the technology of its internal combustion engines. The German manufacturer expects that, until the end of the decade, traditional engines will remain the most popular energy source among its customers. The company seeks to increase the efficiency of its conventional engines to 33%, a percentage well below that achieved by its electric units: 90%. “The internal combustion engine has a long way to go. We will improve its efficiency and pair it with hybrid vehicles in many cases,” says BMW’s sales and marketing chief, Ian Robertson.

The Bavarian brand is also aware of the importance that developing sustainable engines has for the company’s future. “Plug-in cars are faster, quieter and accelerate better. In addition, they set new benchmarks for CO2 and economy. Everything is moving in that direction in terms of legislation. We will improve conventional engines alongside electric powertrains,” declares the German manufacturer’s sales and marketing chief.