Are solid-state batteries finally becoming reality?
Automotive giants hit the road with new battery technology.
1Revolutionary battery technology
Solid-state batteries have long been anticipated as a breakthrough technology that could transform EV range and charging times. The trio of Stellantis, Factorial Energy and SK On is taking this technology from the lab to the roads. Testing in Dodge Charger Daytona models will evaluate real-world performance. Plans to utilize existing lithium-ion factories could provide cost advantages for mass production.
2Scaling through factory partnership
Factorial Energy and SK On signed a Memorandum of Understanding in July 2026 to explore mass production of FEST solid-state batteries in existing lithium-ion plants. SK On's global factory network could enable rapid scaling. Factorial CEO Siyu Huang emphasized that battery breakthroughs only matter if they can be manufactured at scale, making this partnership crucial for bringing the technology to market.
3Stellantis' industrial progress
Stellantis previously invested in Factorial Energy and has tested 77 amp-hour FEST cells. These batteries offer about 375 Wh/kg energy density and operate between -22°F to 113°F. Having endured over 600 charge cycles in tests, they can charge from 15% to over 90% in approximately 18 minutes at room temperature. Their performance has been validated for North America's extreme weather conditions.
4Road testing underway
On June 11, 2026, Stellantis announced real-world testing of FEST battery packs in Dodge Charger Daytona vehicles across North America. A small demo fleet in 2026 will subject the batteries to repeated charging, extreme temperatures and actual driving demands. While no mass-market launch date has been set, these tests will determine when consumer versions might become available.
5Advantages over liquid electrolytes
Solid-state batteries' key benefits versus liquid electrolyte counterparts include higher energy density, faster charging and enhanced safety. They could significantly reduce charging times during highway trips. The absence of flammable liquid electrolytes also reduces fire risks. Factorial's data shows effective room-temperature performance, addressing a critical consumer need.
6Competition intensifies
As Stellantis and partners push forward, competitors like CATL, BYD and Toyota are developing semi-solid or full solid-state alternatives. Most manufacturers target around 2030 for commercial deployment. However, challenges remain in industrial yields, material costs and long-term reliability that must be overcome before widespread adoption becomes feasible.
7Leveraging existing infrastructure
Factorial's strategy avoids billion-dollar factory investments by making solid-state batteries compatible with current lithium-ion equipment. SK On's advanced global factories could facilitate this transition. This approach accelerates the prototype-to-production timeline while potentially reducing costs, making the technology more accessible.
8Potential EV inflection point
Commercialization of solid-state batteries could accelerate EV adoption rates. Extended range and rapid charging may alleviate consumer concerns about charging times. Stellantis' road tests and factory partnerships make this technology's path from lab to road more tangible. However, technical and logistical hurdles must still be resolved before mass production becomes reality.
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