Mercedes is testing new Gen4 battery cells from ProLogium
Mercedes-Benz is expanding its partnership with ProLogium to gain preferential access to its new Gen4 battery technology. The cells are now set to be thoroughly tested for their suitability in potential future vehicle applications.
ProLogium plans to build a cell factory in Dunkirk with an annual capacity of up to 44 GWh.
Image: ProLogium
The focus is on ProLogium’s so-called Gen4 Superfluidized Inorganic Next-Generation Lithium Ceramic Battery. These cells will be tested electrically, thermally, and for safety in Mercedes-Benz’s own testing facilities as well as at specialized external institutions.
A decision on series deployment has not yet been made. The tests are intended to determine first whether the technology is suitable for future Mercedes models in general. ProLogium promises that the Gen4 cells will offer high energy density, fast charging capability, high power output, and good low-temperature performance. According to the company, the safety architecture includes a non-flammable inorganic electrolyte, ceramic separators, and a proprietary active safety system. ProLogium does not provide specific figures regarding the energy density or charging performance of the cells currently being tested by Mercedes in this announcement.
Mercedes and ProLogium have been collaborating since 2016. In 2022, Mercedes invested a substantial two-digit million-euro amount in the Taiwanese battery developer and agreed to jointly develop cells. Back then, the automaker indicated a possible use of this technology in selected models. The partnership has since been significantly expanded. According to ProLogium, formats such as pouch and prismatic cells, along with bipolar technology, have been tested. Mercedes also remains a strategic investor, represented by a member on ProLogium’s Board of Directors.
Collaboration dates back to 2016
Meanwhile, Mercedes is pursuing other development paths for solid-state batteries as well. In 2021, the company invested in the U.S.-based developer Factorial Energy and established a development partnership there as well. The new testing agreement with ProLogium is thus part of a broader technology portfolio and does not yet represent a commitment to a single cell approach.
ProLogium currently produces its battery cells primarily at its Taoke Gigafactory in Taiwan. According to the company, it has validated production on a GWh scale there and is manufacturing C-Samples as well as cells for demonstration vehicles.
Meanwhile, ProLogium is expanding its European manufacturing capabilities. A gigafactory is being built in Dunkirk, France, with the first phase designed to have an annual capacity of 4 GWh. This capacity is set to be increased gradually by 2030, with a long-term target of up to 44 GWh for the site.
For Mercedes, this partnership is not only technically interesting but also relevant for establishing a potential European supply chain. If the Gen4 technology proves successful in tests, ProLogium could eventually supply cells produced in Europe. The companies have not yet provided a specific timeline for series production or identified any particular vehicle platforms.