In a significant milestone for electric mobility, the BMW Group and Solid Power have advanced their longstanding partnership by bringing all-solid-state battery (ASSB) technology onto public roads for the first time. The collaborative effort sees a specially equipped BMW i7 test vehicle fitted with Solid Power’s large-format, sulfide-based ASSB cells now undergoing field trials in the Munich area.
This achievement marks a pivotal step in the BMW Group’s electrification strategy, combining its deep battery expertise with Solid Power’s breakthrough developments in solid-state chemistry. With higher energy density and the promise of lighter, more compact battery systems, ASSBs are viewed by many as the next leap forward in EV performance and range.
A Technological Leap on Four Wheels
BMW’s ASSB-powered i7 test vehicle isn’t just a proof of concept—it’s a declaration of intent. The vehicle integrates Solid Power’s sulfide-based cells into a reengineered battery pack based on the automaker’s proven Gen5 platform, which features prismatic cell architecture. This blend of familiar structural design and cutting-edge chemistry creates a real-world lab for validating the performance, durability, and integration potential of ASSB technology.
As part of the testing program, engineers will examine crucial factors such as cell expansion, operational pressure regulation, and thermal management—key considerations for bringing ASSBs to scalable production. The field data gathered will provide both partners with critical insights necessary for the evolution of ASSB-powered drivetrains.
Decades of Dedication, Accelerated by Partnership
The roots of BMW and Solid Power’s collaboration run deep. Since joining forces in 2016 under a Joint Development Agreement, the two companies have progressively intensified their efforts to bring solid-state battery technology to market. In 2021, BMW deepened its commitment by investing in Solid Power during a key financing round.
By the end of 2022, the partnership took a decisive step forward: BMW received a research and development license to operate a solid-state cell prototype line at its Cell Manufacturing Competence Center (CMCC) in Parsdorf. This setup allows BMW to leverage Solid Power’s electrolyte innovations while refining the processes needed for industrial-scale ASSB production.
John Van Scoter, President and CEO of Solid Power, hailed the milestone, stating:
“Solid Power is extremely proud that our partnership with BMW has resulted in the first demonstration of truly all-solid-state battery cells in a vehicle. We believe in the promise of ASSBs and continue to drive innovation of our sulfide electrolyte in support of that future for EVs.”
Martin Schuster, Vice President of Battery Cell and Cell Module at the BMW Group, echoed the enthusiasm:
“Our BMW i7 ASSB test vehicle on the road is a perfect example of the BMW Group’s technology-open mindset. We are continuously advancing the development of new battery cell technologies and are constantly expanding our know-how with valuable partners such as Solid Power.”
BMW’s Holistic Battery Strategy in Action
BMW’s battery development is not an isolated initiative—it is a central pillar of the company’s long-term innovation roadmap. Since 2008, BMW has been methodically building its in-house battery know-how. In 2019, the launch of the Battery Cell Competence Center (BCCC) in Munich further consolidated the Group’s capabilities across the battery value chain—from initial R&D to design and pilot-scale production.
Currently, BMW’s global innovation ecosystem includes over 300 partners, encompassing start-ups, established battery specialists, and academic institutions. The collaboration with Solid Power exemplifies BMW’s strategy of co-developing future battery technologies with leading innovators, ensuring early access to transformative solutions and maintaining strategic autonomy in an increasingly competitive EV market.
Looking Ahead
While the BMW i7 ASSB test vehicle represents a milestone, it also signals the beginning of an important chapter. The insights generated during real-world trials will shape future development, helping refine both the cells and the system architecture required for eventual commercial deployment.
ASSB technology still faces developmental hurdles—particularly around scalability and cost efficiency—but with partners like Solid Power, BMW is well-positioned to turn these challenges into opportunities. As the automotive world races toward a solid-state future, BMW is not just participating in the race—it’s helping define the track.
