Mercedes-Benz has announced that it will use Sila’s silicon anode chemistry in EV batteries that will be optional in its upcoming electric G-Class SUV. The company says the batteries will be produced with 100% renewable energy and will be available at mid-decade.

Mercedes-Benz says, “Compared to today’s commercially available cells with a comparable format, Sila’s technology enables a 20-40% increase in energy density—reaching more than 800 Wh/l at the cell level.”

“We’re focused on delivering materials that are cost-efficient and capable of delivering on the promise of electric vehicles, working to ensure longer range, improved charge times and lower battery cost per kWh,” said Sila co-founder and CEO Gene Berdichevsky. “To realize the potential of next-generation materials, scale-up is a pivotal part of execution, and we’ve been building towards automotive quality standards and scale since our start. With our new plant in Washington, we’re ensuring we can meet the requirements of our auto partners like Mercedes-Benz as they transition to a fully electric future.”

Source: Mercedes-Benz