Summary
- Mercedes-Benz partners with Factorial for battery cells
- Vision of mixed battery packs with different cell types wired in parallel
- Developing micro-converters to replace electrical inverter systems
- Micro-converters allow individual cell pairings to be programmed and controlled independently
- Possibility for faster charging rates, longer driving range, and more flexibility in pack design suggested by Mercedes’ engineers
Article
Mercedes-Benz is looking towards the future of battery technology, specifically focusing on solid-state batteries. The automaker has partnered with Factorial for battery cells, but is already thinking ahead to mixed battery packs with different types of cells all wired in parallel, rather than the traditional series arrangement. Mercedes is developing a new micro-converter in-house that will replace today’s electrical inverter systems, enabling this new approach to battery pack design.
In Germany, Mercedes engineers showcased working prototypes of the programmable micro-converters to Green Car Reports. These devices are about the length of a stick of gum and twice the width, encased in black plastic. The micro-converters can be connected directly to any number of cell pairs, allowing engineers to program and control individual cell pairings independently, regardless of the state-of-charge. This flexibility enables the possibility of mixing and matching cell types, chemistries, and more for various situations.
Engineers demonstrated the capabilities of the new micro-converters on a workbench, showcasing the ability to put mixed test cells under load and then independently turn on and off certain cell pairings. This new technology opens the door for performance vehicles, such as those in Mercedes’ AMG division, to utilize different types of cells for different conditions and situations in order to operate within their optimal operating windows. This could potentially result in faster charging rates, longer driving range, and more flexibility in pack design.
Mercedes-Benz’s innovative approach to battery technology could revolutionize the electric vehicle industry. By developing new micro-converters that allow for mixed battery packs with different types of cells, the automaker is setting the stage for more efficient and versatile electric vehicles in the future. This new technology enables engineers to program and control individual cell pairings independently, providing the flexibility to mix and match cell types and chemistries to optimize performance in various conditions.
The new micro-converters developed by Mercedes-Benz offer a glimpse into the future of electric vehicle battery technology. These devices have the potential to greatly improve charging rates, driving range, and overall performance by allowing for customized battery pack configurations. The ability to mix and match cell types and chemistries opens up new possibilities for automakers to create more efficient and versatile electric vehicles, ultimately benefiting consumers with improved performance and flexibility.
Mercedes-Benz’s forward-thinking approach to battery technology highlights the importance of innovation in the electric vehicle industry. By investing in new micro-converter technology that enables mixed battery packs with different types of cells, Mercedes is paving the way for more efficient and powerful electric vehicles. This new approach has the potential to revolutionize the industry and lead to significant advancements in electric vehicle performance, charging capabilities, and overall design.
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