Mercedes-Benz on Tuesday introduced it’s going to accomplice with Woburn, Massachusetts-based Factorial Power to develop solid-state batteries for future electrical autos.

The announcement comes only a month after an identical partnership was introduced between Hyundai Motor Group and Factorial. It additionally comes the identical week Nissan introduced it’s going to begin providing vehicles with solid-state batteries by 2028.

Just like the Hyundai Motor Group deal, Mercedes may also make an fairness funding in Factorial. The funding might be large enough that Mercedes will get to nominate a board member at Factorial.

Factorial has been creating solid-state battery know-how for the previous six years (beforehand as Lionano) and consists of former Chairman and CEO of Panasonic Company of North America Joe Taylor as government chairman. Former Mercedes-Benz CEO Dieter Zetsche and former Ford CEO Mark Fields are additionally on Factorial’s advisory board. The corporate is headed by Siyu Huang who can be a co-founder.

Most main automakers wish to introduce solid-state batteries later this decade. The batteries, which derive their identify from their stable electrolytes, promise improved vary and shorter cost occasions in comparison with present liquid-type batteries, in addition to improved security and decrease prices.

In keeping with Mercedes, Factorial has developed a solid-state battery that provides as much as 50% longer vary per cost, elevated security, and value parity with typical lithium-ion batteries. Mercedes expects to begin testing a prototype solid-state battery developed with Factorial as early as subsequent 12 months.

Whereas solid-state batteries aren’t a brand new know-how, hurdles stay in the case of automotive functions, notably manufacturing the batteries on the scale and sturdiness required for vehicles.