Mercedes-Benz Launches Advanced Battery Cell Centre to Boost EV Technology
Team FS
08/Jul/2024

Key Points:
1. Mercedes-Benz opens "Mercedes-Benz eCampus" for battery cell development and production at its German headquarters.
2. Focus on high-energy anodes, cobalt-free cathodes, and solid-state technology for improved energy storage and driving ranges.
3. Expansion of battery production capabilities amidst partnerships and investments in green technology.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its ambitious plans to revolutionize electric vehicle (EV) technology with the inauguration of the "Mercedes-Benz eCampus", a cutting-edge development and production centre for battery cells located at its headquarters in Germany. The facility, spanning 10,000 square meters, aims to produce tens of thousands of battery cells annually and is set to include a battery test and trial centre by the end of this year.
The initiative marks Mercedes-Benz's strategic move towards gaining greater control over the chemical composition and industrial manufacturing of its batteries. Key innovations include lithium ion cells featuring high-energy anodes, cobalt-free cathodes, and advancements in solid-state technology. These developments promise significant enhancements in energy storage capacity, longer driving ranges, and faster charging times—critical factors for premium carmakers aiming to optimize weight, costs, and performance in their EV models.
Markus Schaefer, Chief Technology Officer at Mercedes-Benz, highlighted that the cell designs developed at the new centre will not only benefit Mercedes-Benz vehicles but also be shared with partner companies to integrate into future battery cells supplied by external partners. This collaborative approach underscores Mercedes-Benz's commitment to advancing EV technology through strategic partnerships and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
The inauguration of the "Mercedes-Benz eCampus" was attended by German Economy Minister Robert Habeck, emphasizing the government's support for investments in green technology and the development of local capacities in crucial technologies like battery manufacturing. Habeck stressed the importance of Germany and Europe building their own expertise and capabilities in battery technology to maintain competitiveness in the global automotive sector.
Mercedes-Benz's battery production footprint extends across seven global locations, including facilities in the U.S., China, and Poland. The company sources battery cells from leading suppliers such as China's CATL while also holding a significant stake in the battery cell venture ACC. Recent investments in Sila Nanotechnologies and supply agreements with lithium suppliers like Rock Tech Lithium further underscore Mercedes-Benz's commitment to securing a robust supply chain and advancing sustainable battery technologies.
As Mercedes-Benz continues to expand its battery production capabilities and invest in cutting-edge EV technologies, the industry watches closely for further advancements that could shape the future of electric mobility. The establishment of the "Mercedes-Benz eCampus" represents a significant step towards enhancing the company's competitiveness in the evolving electric vehicle market, driving innovation, and meeting the growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions worldwide.
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