Mercedes has stated that the forthcoming G-Class EV would be available with a Sila silicon anode battery pack as an option. The zero-emission SUV will have silicon anode chemistry in the battery pack, making it the brand's first production EV.
The EQG will not include high-density cell chemistry as standard; instead, the technology will be available for a long-range derivative for an additional cost. The high-silicon anode material, according to the manufacturer, will boost battery energy density without compromising safety or other performance metrics.
Sila's technique enables for a 20-40% increase in energy density at the cell level, reaching more than 800 Wh/l.
Mercedes hasn't said when an extended-range G-Class EV utilizing Sila's battery technology will be available, although it's expected around 2025. As a result, Mercedes will be Sila's first publicly stated automotive client.
Sila is a firm established in California that focuses on producing next-generation lithium-ion battery materials. Mercedes invested in the company in 2019 as part of their R&D efforts to build improved batteries for future electric vehicles. Sila's new factory in Washington will produce silicon anode materials exclusively with renewable energy. As a result, future models will use high-tech batteries with much longer ranges than standard batteries.
Mercedes has partnered with ProLogium to develop electric vehicles with solid-state batteries "in the future years."