Summary
- Mercedes-Benz is looking into solid-state batteries and has partnered with Factorial for battery cells
- The automaker is working on developing new micro-converters to enable mixed battery packs with different types of cells wired in parallel
- Engineers in Germany have shown working prototypes of the programmable micro-converters
- The micro-converters can be connected directly to any number of cell pairs and allow for independent control of cell pairings regardless of state-of-charge
- Mercedes engineers believe that the new micro-converters could lead to faster charging rates, longer driving range, and more flexibility in pack design
Article
Mercedes-Benz is looking towards the future of electric vehicle technology with its partnership with Factorial for battery cells, as well as developing a new micro-converter in-house to revolutionize the way battery packs are configured. The automaker envisions mixed battery packs with different types of cells all wired in parallel, rather than the traditional series arrangement, to enhance performance and efficiency. The programmable micro-converters, about the size of a stick of gum, allow for individual control and programming of cell pairings regardless of their state-of-charge.
Engineers demonstrated the capabilities of the new micro-converters by showing how different cell pairings could be independently turned on and off under load. This flexibility opens the possibility to mix-and-match cell types, chemistries, and more for various situations, ultimately leading to faster charging rates, longer driving range, and more flexibility in pack design. The ability to incorporate LFP cells, NMC cells, and solid-state cells together in a single pack allows for optimal performance in different conditions and situations, potentially opening new avenues for high-performance vehicles from Mercedes’ AMG division.
The development of these micro-converters represents a significant step towards advancing electric vehicle technology and potentially revolutionizing the way battery packs are configured and utilized in the future. Mercedes-Benz engineers are confident that this new approach could result in improved performance, longer range, and enhanced flexibility in pack design. By utilizing different types of cells for different conditions and situations, the automaker aims to optimize the operating windows of these cells and maximize the overall efficiency of the battery pack.
The potential benefits of mixed battery packs with different cell types wired in parallel include faster charging rates, longer driving range, and increased flexibility in pack design. Mercedes-Benz is at the forefront of this innovation with the development of programmable micro-converters that allow for individual control and programming of cell pairings. By incorporating various cell types and chemistries in a single pack, the automaker aims to enhance performance, optimize efficiency, and explore new possibilities for electrified vehicles.
Overall, Mercedes-Benz’s vision for the future of electric vehicles includes the incorporation of mixed battery packs with different types of cells wired in parallel, supported by programmable micro-converters developed in-house. This innovative approach not only promises improved performance and efficiency but also opens up new possibilities for pack design and optimization. By leveraging different cell types, chemistries, and technologies, Mercedes aims to push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology and deliver enhanced capabilities in terms of charging rates, driving range, and flexibility in various operating conditions.
In conclusion, Mercedes-Benz is leading the way in electric vehicle technology with its development of advanced battery pack configurations and programmable micro-converters. By envisioning mixed battery packs with different cell types wired in parallel, the automaker aims to revolutionize the way electrified vehicles are powered and optimized for performance and efficiency. With an eye towards the future, Mercedes-Benz is setting the stage for a new era of electric vehicle technology that promises faster charging rates, longer driving range, and increased flexibility in pack design, ultimately leading to improved capabilities and performance across its vehicle lineup.
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