Mercedes-Benz inaugurated a development and production center for battery cells on Monday at its headquarters in Germany. This new facility, called “Mercedes-Benz eCampus,” aims to enhance control over the chemical composition and industrial manufacturing of its batteries.
The 10,000 square meter factory will produce tens of thousands of battery cells annually and is set to open a battery test and trial center by the end of the year.
Mercedes-Benz is focusing on lithium-ion cells with high-energy anodes, cobalt-free cathodes, and solid-state technology, which promises more energy storage, longer driving ranges, and faster charging. Increasing the energy density of EV batteries is crucial for premium carmakers to reduce weight and costs while enhancing driving range. Designs developed at the new center will be shared with partner companies and incorporated into future battery cells from suppliers, said Mercedes-Benz Chief Technology Officer Markus Schaefer.
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German Economy Minister Robert Habeck, an advocate for investment in green technology, attended the site’s inauguration. “It is of key importance that Germany and Europe build up their own capacities and, in particular, their own know-how in this key technology,” Habeck stated.
Mercedes-Benz has battery production sites in seven locations, including Germany, the US, China, and Poland, and sources battery cells from suppliers such as China’s CATL.
