Summary
– Polestar tested a 77-kWh battery pack with experimental silicon-dominant cells from StoreDot, achieving a charging speed of 10-80% in 10 minutes at a consistent power of 310 kW.
– Polestar is now more independent from Volvo, with Geely as the major stakeholder.
– The XFC cells used in the battery pack can be scaled up to 100 kWh for larger vehicles like the Polestar 5, with an expected charging speed of 200 miles in 10 minutes.
– The XFC cells have properties comparable to NMC batteries and provide optimized cooling without extra weight, achieving good thermal management during testing.
– Polestar aims to match EV charging times to that of filling up a combustion car with the use of XFC cells in their future production models.
Article
Polestar’s StoreDot Partnership
Polestar has been collaborating with StoreDot, an Israel-based battery specialist, to enhance the charging speed and energy density of its upcoming electric vehicles. Recently, the manufacturer announced a breakthrough with a Polestar 5 prototype achieving an impressive 10-80% charge in just 10 minutes at a consistent 310 kilowatts, peaking over 370 kW. The prototype featured a special 77-kWh battery pack with experimental silicon-dominant cells from StoreDot, designed for ultra-fast charging.
Polestar’s Independence from Volvo
Earlier this year, Polestar severed most ties with Volvo, transferring its major stake to Geely. The battery test conducted by Polestar showcases its independence and commitment to advancing its own technology. The Polestar 5 prototype test serves as a demonstration of Polestar’s technological capabilities separate from other Geely brands.
Polestar’s Battery Technology Advancements
Polestar aims to increase the battery pack size made up of StoreDot’s XFC cells to 100 kWh, suitable for larger vehicles like the Polestar 5. This advancement in battery technology allows for faster charging times, with the potential to replenish approximately 200 miles in just 10 minutes. Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath expressed confidence in the technology, highlighting the potential for reduced charging times comparable to refueling a petrol car.
StoreDot’s XFC Cell Advantages
The XFC cells used in the Polestar prototype offer comparable energy density to nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries commonly used in EVs. These cells not only enhance charging speed but also serve a structural role in the battery pack while providing optimized cooling ability without added weight. Polestar’s focus on battery pack thermal management ensured stable temperatures throughout the test without the need for auxiliary cooling systems.
Future Charging Performance in Production Models
Following the successful conclusion of the prototype charging test, Polestar is optimistic about replicating similar charging performance in its future production models. The goal is to significantly reduce charging times to match the convenience of refueling a combustion engine vehicle. By leveraging advanced battery technology like StoreDot’s XFC cells, Polestar aims to revolutionize the EV charging experience for its customers.
Conclusion
Polestar’s partnership with StoreDot and the successful charging test of the Polestar 5 prototype highlight significant advancements in EV battery technology. With the potential to enhance charging speed, energy density, and overall efficiency, Polestar is at the forefront of innovation in the electric vehicle industry. As the brand continues to distance itself from Volvo and assert its independence within the Geely group, consumers can look forward to faster, more convenient charging experiences with future Polestar models.
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