MAHLE Joins Forces with ProLogium for Solid-State Battery Solutions for EVs

Taiwanese solid-state battery manufacturer ProLogium and Germany-based automotive supplier MAHLE have signed an MOU for the development of the first thermal management system tailored for ProLogium’s next-generation solid-state batteries. The collaborative efforts will contribute to the rollout of commercially viable solid-state battery solutions that offer improved safety, energy density, and lifespan.

Both parties will collaborate on cell tests focusing on thermal properties to facilitate the development of innovative thermal management for solid-state batteries. This is the first time MAHLE, a century-old automotive supplier, has tapped into the solid-state battery industry.

The two companies will enter into a discussion regarding building prototypes for “ProLogium- MAHLE” solid-state cell modules and battery packs after a series of evaluations on ProLogium’s solid-state batteries with 100 per cent SiOx anode.

Arnd Franz, Chairman of the MAHLE Management Board and CEO, said, “The cooperation with ProLogium is an absolute win-win situation. With the combined expertise of the two groups, we will shape future battery technologies with superior properties.”

Efficient thermal management is what makes efficient e-mobility possible in the first place. Heating and cooling in vehicles are an essential technology field for electrification and MAHLE core business. When it comes to battery cooling systems, MAHLE brings the expertise of over a decade.

MAHLE is delving into the solid-state battery sector for the first time and leverages the ProLogium solid-state technology to assess thermal needs at various levels, including cell, cell module, battery pack, and vehicle system. Through this evaluation, the company derives cutting-edge thermal management solutions that go beyond mere performance, efficiency, and cost competitiveness, it says. It also explicitly considers ageing assessments, recognizing the crucial role battery value plays over its lifetime in driving mass market adoption and establishing a thriving second-hand electric vehicle market. By focusing on these aspects, the outcome is expected to expedite the advancement of solid-state technology while enhancing the properties of the cells.

“Developing the very first thermal management solutions tailor-made for solid-state batteries will be a crucial step towards commercialization”, said Dr Uli Christian Blessing, Vice President of Product Development Thermal Management at MAHLE.

ProLogium’s oxide solid-state lithium ceramic battery will offer a longer driving range, faster charging and better battery recyclability. ProLogium is an energy innovation firm focused on the R&D and manufacturing of next-generation battery solutions for EV, consumer, and industrial applications. Its first giga-scale production line in Taoyuan, Taiwan will start operations by the end of 2023, which will help accelerate the company’s capacity expansion in major global markets.

MAHLE generated sales of more than EUR 12 billion in 2022. The firm has 152 production locations and 12 major research and development centers spread across more than 30 countries.