factoral finds a partner to mass produce solid state ev batteriesSK On and Factorial Energy have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to bring Factorial's solid-state cell technology to SK On's global manufacturing network. It represents another step toward moving solid-state battery chemistry from prototype trials into volume production.Solid-state batteries promise significantly higher energy density, longer range, and faster charging than conventional lithium-ion cells. Manufacturing them at scale remains the hard part. Finding a solid electrolyte that stays conductive without cracking is still a challenge, and production costs run high. As a result, the two companies plan to pool their resources rather than pursue the technology separately.One of the partnership's main priorities is to assess whether and how SK On's existing facilities and battery plants can support solid-state development. The pairing combines Factorial's FEST solid-state technology with SK On's battery and manufacturing expertise. Together, the two will determine whether large-scale production is feasible.AdvertisementAdvertisement"A battery breakthrough only matters if it can be manufactured at scale," Factorial CEO Siyu Huang said after announcing the deal.factoral finds a partner to mass produce solid state ev batteriesHuang added that SK On's "manufacturing footprint spans some of the world's most advanced battery facilities, and their expertise will be critical in shaping how solid-state battery technology integrates into global production ecosystems." Factorial's high-energy-density cells, meanwhile, enable smaller, lighter, and more efficient designs for EVs, energy storage, and defense applications.The alliance builds on momentum Factorial has already gathered in North America. The company has already begun testing its FEST solid-state cells through a collaboration with Stellantis. The cells were integrated into Stellantis' STLA Large platform and used to power a Dodge Charger Daytona prototype.The numbers behind those cells are notable. Stellantis said last year that Factorial's 77Ah FEST cells achieved an energy density of 375 Wh/kg over more than 600 cycles. The cells charged from 15% to 90% in 18 minutes while holding performance across a temperature range of -22°F to 113°F (-30°C to 45°C). Factorial's cells also reached a discharge rate of up to 4C.AdvertisementAdvertisementFactorial's automaker roster already runs deep. The company is working with Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Kia, and Stellantis to commercialize solid-state EV batteries. Last fall, Mercedes-Benz drove a modified EQS more than 745 miles (1,200 km) on Factorial's solid-state cells. SK On supplies EV cells to Hyundai Motor Group, Ford, and Volkswagen.