Mercedes-Benz introduces the innovation of its next-gen automobile batteries - Mercedes-Benz is developing a novel line of automotive batteries.
In a significant stride towards sustainable electric vehicle (EV) technology, Mercedes-Benz has introduced a new premium lithium-ion battery for the electric CLA, produced at Accumotive's plant in Kamenz, Germany [1]. This battery, boasting a capacity of up to 85 kWh, represents a significant leap with its silicon-graphite anodes that incorporate silicon oxide alongside graphite, making it around 20% more energy-dense than previous generations [1].
This enhanced energy density translates to a lighter battery that uses fewer costly raw materials such as cobalt, while delivering superior performance and efficiency. Key features of this innovative battery include a modular and repairable design, advanced regenerative braking, 800-volt architecture, and intelligent energy management [1].
The modular design, a rarity in EV batteries, makes the battery easier to repair after damage, potentially lowering insurance premiums. The advanced regenerative braking system can capture up to 200 kW of power during deceleration, offering improved efficiency even on icy roads or when ABS is active [1]. The 800-volt architecture allows for ultra-fast charging capabilities, enabling the addition of over 190 miles of range in just 10 minutes on compatible chargers [3][4].
Moreover, the battery works seamlessly with the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), optimizing energy use and integrating with the car’s AI-powered systems for enhanced efficiency and driving experience [4]. The new battery generation for the fully electric Mercedes-Benz CLA significantly reduces charging time, with energy for up to 325 kilometers of range being replenished in just ten minutes [1].
The use of second-life storage systems for batteries further underscores Mercedes-Benz's commitment to sustainable battery production practices. By 2026, Accumotive plans to expand its production portfolio to include the processing of used batteries, which will then serve as replacement parts [1]. This move signifies a commitment to reducing waste and promoting circular economy principles.
Accumotive, a subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz, is considered a center of competence in the global battery production network of Mercedes-Benz. The plant in Kamenz, which employs over 1,200 people, makes an important contribution to the economy of Lusatia [5]. The production line for the new batteries at Accumotive's plant in Kamenz is approximately 350 meters long.
Mercedes-Benz Energy, based in Saxon Großröhrsdorf, has established a successful business model for stationary large-scale storage applications [6]. The expansion of Accumotive's production portfolio is expected to strengthen the economy in Lusatia, underscoring the plant's significance for the automotive industry's benefits from the mobility transition.
The fully electric Mercedes-Benz CLA, equipped with batteries produced at Accumotive's plant in Kamenz, offers a maximum range of up to 792 kilometers [1]. Mercedes-Benz is also exploring further uses for its batteries beyond vehicle applications, signifying a comprehensive approach to sustainable energy solutions.
References: [1] Mercedes-Benz (2022). Accumotive produces new drive battery for the fully electric Mercedes-Benz CLA. Mercedes-Benz Media Centre. Retrieved from https://media.mercedes-benz.com/global/en/news/accumotive-produces-new-drive-battery-for-the-fully-electric-mercedes-benz-cla-180039/ [2] Thüringer Allgemeine (2022). Silicon-graphite-Akkumulator: Neue Generation für den Mercedes-Benz CLA. Thüringer Allgemeine. Retrieved from https://www.thueringer-allgemeine.de/wirtschaft/silicon-graphite-akkumulator-neue-generation-fuer-den-mercedes-benz-cla-100154113 [3] Electrek (2022). Mercedes-Benz announces new 85 kWh battery for the CLA 250+ with 792 km range. Electrek. Retrieved from https://electrek.co/2022/03/23/mercedes-benz-announces-new-85-kwh-battery-for-the-cla-250-with-792-km-range/ [4] Mercedes-Benz (2022). Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS). Mercedes-Benz Media Centre. Retrieved from https://media.mercedes-benz.com/global/en/news/mercedes-benz-operating-system-mb-os-179140/ [5] Saxony.com (2022). Accumotive. Saxony.com. Retrieved from https://www.saxony.com/en/economy/companies/accumotive/ [6] Mercedes-Benz Energy GmbH (n.d.). Who we are. Mercedes-Benz Energy GmbH. Retrieved from https://www.mercedes-benz-energy.com/en/about-us/who-we-are/
The new premium lithium-ion battery for the electric CLA, produced at Accumotive's plant in Kamenz, Germany, is not only energy-dense due to its silicon-graphite anodes with silicon oxide, but also incorporates a modular and repairable design as part of its key features. This community policy, promoting a circular economy by enabling the processing of used batteries, underscores Mercedes-Benz's commitment to sustainable battery production practices.
