Factorial and SK On to cooperate on solid-state batteries

Solid-state battery developer Factorial Energy and South Korean battery giant SK On are advancing the commercialisation of solid-state cells. A newly agreed partnership will examine how existing production structures can be used for the next generation of cells.

The newly-formed strategic partnership between solid-state battery specialist Factorial and global battery manufacturer SK On aims to accelerate the market launch of its FEST technology, which is currently being tested in real-world applications, including with the Stellantis brand Dodge. The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly evaluate the technical feasibility and integration of solid-state cells into SK On’s existing lithium-ion production lines. The focus is on leveraging the South Korean group’s global manufacturing capabilities to scale Factorial’s FEST technology industrially.

SK On has an annual production capacity of over 200 gigawatt-hours worldwide and operates significant manufacturing facilities not only in South Korea but also in the USA. The cell manufacturer’s established automotive customers include major groups such as the Hyundai Motor Group, Ford, Volkswagen and Ferrari. Through this collaboration, Factorial aims to adopt a capital-efficient approach to industrialisation and utilise existing industrial infrastructure.

In a statement, Factorial founder and CEO Siyu Huang emphasised:”A battery breakthrough only matters if it can be manufactured at scale”. And, indeed, SK On’s global production facilities and expertise are crucial for integrating solid-state technology into global production ecosystems. The agreement highlights Factorial’s strategy of minimising the time and financial investment required for factory construction by collaborating with established industry leaders.

SK On also views the joint initiative as an important step in exploring future energy storage generations. “This collaboration provides an opportunity to evaluate the technical feasibility and manufacturing readiness of solid-state battery technologies, drawing on SK On’s battery technology and manufacturing expertise,” explains Ki-soo Park, Head of the Institute for Future Technology at SK On. The company will continue to actively seek opportunities to support innovative approaches in the next generation of energy storage solutions.

Factorial has been collaborating with various heavyweights in the global automotive industry for some time. The company’s strategic investors and partners include Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis. Real-world road tests with modified test vehicles have already been conducted with Mercedes-Benz, while Stellantis has successfully integrated high-energy cells into the aforementioned Dodge demonstration vehicle.

Additionally, the company is now being supported by IQT, a government-backed investor funded by the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and acting on behalf of other US agencies. The goal is to rapidly make dual-use technologies available to government authorities. Solid-state batteries could, for example, power the energy demands of AI data centres or be deployed in drones. “The ability of Factorial’s solid-state batteries to deliver high power and operate in low temperature environments makes them very attractive for use in high-altitude or high-latitude applications,” said IQT manager Brian Smith regarding the investment. “We are delighted to be able to help the company accelerate and expand its footprint into the drone, UAV, and mobile robotics market.”