Electric vehicle (EV) startup Mullen Automotive has made strides in its quest for next-generation battery technology. They’ve successfully integrated solid-state polymer cells into packs for their Class 1 EV cargo vans, paving the way for extensive testing and eventual road integration.
This marks a significant step forward for Mullen, placing them at the forefront of a potentially game-changing battery technology. Solid-state polymer batteries offer several advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries, including:
- Enhanced safety: Solid electrolytes eliminate the risk of flammable liquid electrolytes, a major concern with lithium-ion batteries.
- Increased range: Mullen projects a 73% range boost for their Class 1 vans, translating to an estimated 190 miles on a single charge.
- Faster charging: Solid-state batteries can charge significantly faster than their lithium-ion counterparts.
- Improved durability: These batteries are expected to have longer lifespans and withstand harsher conditions.
Testing and Road Ahead:
With cell-to-pack integration complete, Mullen is setting their sights on rigorous testing, beginning December 28th, 2023. This includes evaluating the battery management system (BMS) and overall pack performance. If all goes according to plan, on-vehicle road testing is slated for Q1 2024.
Beyond Class 1:
Mullen’s ambition extends beyond just Class 1 vans. They plan to incorporate solid-state polymer batteries into their entire EV lineup, including the Mullen FIVE crossover, commercial delivery vehicles, and Bollinger Motors trucks.
A Brighter Future for EVs:
Mullen’s progress with solid-state polymer batteries is a promising sign for the future of EVs. This technology has the potential to address key concerns around range, safety, and charging speed, paving the way for wider EV adoption and a cleaner transportation landscape.
About Mullen Automotive:
Mullen Automotive is a California-based company building the next generation of EVs. They operate two US assembly plants and boast a diverse portfolio of vehicles, including the Mullen FIVE crossover, commercial EVs, and the Bollinger Motors electric trucks. Their acquisition of Electric Last Mile Solutions (ELMS) in December 2022 further bolstered their production capabilities.
Mullen’s commitment to cutting-edge battery technology, like solid-state polymers, positions them as a pioneer in the rapidly evolving EV space. Their progress is worth watching closely, as it could hold the key to unlocking a greener, more efficient future for transportation.
