Next-Gen BMW EVs Will Keep Lithium-Ion Batteries

BMW AG has begun developing solid-state batteries but doesn’t expect the technology to supplant current lithium-ion systems for electric cars anytime soon.

Future Bimmer hybrid and full-electric vehicles will use “normal lithium-ion” packs for the next two to three generations, Stefan Juraschek, BMW’s head of electric powertrain, tells Digital Trends. Calling the chemistry robust, he says there is still room to improve lithium-ion systems.

Several companies are developing solid-state batteries, which have a greater energy density to allow for a longer driving range. But Juraschek notes there are issues with cold weather performance and material availability, thus he doesn’t see a clear advantage for the technology at this point.

In December BMW formed a partnership with Colorado-based Solid Power Inc. to develop solid-state batteries. Several other carmakers have said they plan to introduce EVs powered by such batteries within five years.

BMW also sees only a limited near-term potential for 800-volt charging systems. Instead, the carmaker is working on a flexible 400-volt architecture that can accommodate 50- to 100-kWh vehicles, Juraschek says.