BMW simply hit a serious milestone: it’s now actively testing all-solid-state battery (ASSB) cells in a BMW i7 prototype. Developed in collaboration with Stable Energythese next-gen batteries are lastly seeing real-world use in Munich—marking a giant leap ahead not only for EV efficiency, however probably for MINI as properly.
So, what precisely is a solid-state battery?
Briefly: it ditches the flammable liquid electrolyte present in conventional lithium-ion batteries and replaces it with a strong one. That change brings some huge advantages:
- Extra vitality densitywhich may imply extra vary with out larger batteries.
- Higher securitysince strong electrolytes are far much less vulnerable to thermal runaway.
- Quicker chargingbecause of improved ion conductivity.
What this implies for BMW—and why MINI followers ought to care
Whereas BMW is beginning with high-end functions just like the i7, the actual promise comes when this tech trickles down the lineup. Right here’s what it may ship:
- Prolonged varyparticularly vital for MINI’s next-gen EVs just like the J01 Cooper and Aceman.
- Decrease weightwhich may assist convey again among the agility that heavier EVs have dulled.
- Smaller packagingliberating up house and unlocking design flexibility—key for MINI’s compact proportions.
For MINI, this tech could possibly be transformative. Give it some thought: a real small electrical MINI with actual vary, lighter curb weight, and packaging that doesn’t compromise inside house or design character. That’s the dream—and solid-state may assist get us there.
Don’t anticipate it tomorrow
That is nonetheless early-stage testing. Widespread adoption of solid-state tech is probably going years away, and scaling it is going to take main funding. However BMW’s dedication—each financially and strategically—is actual. And if it pays off, it may give MINI one thing no different premium small EV gives: a really uncompromised electrical driving expertise.
