Rimac’s solid-state battery stands out for its remarkable specs. A 100-kilowatt-hour (kWh) pack charges from 10% to 80% in under seven minutes, compared to over 15 minutes for most current EV batteries. Its power density reaches 2,210 watts per kilogram and 2,980 watts per liter, a significant leap over Rimac’s latest liquid-based cylindrical cells (1,753 W/kg and 2,575 W/l). Weighing 846 pounds (384 kg) and occupying 285 liters, it’s lighter and smaller than a comparable cylindrical pack at 1,036 pounds (470 kg) and 320 liters.
The battery’s chemistry, featuring a 90% nickel, 5% manganese, and 5% cobalt cathode paired with a 100% silicon anode, boosts efficiency. Housed in a thermoplastic composite enclosure and cooled indirectly with refrigerant, it eliminates fire or explosion risks at the cell level, even at extreme temperatures like -4°F (-20°C), where it retains over 95% of its energy. The voltage range of 540 to 907 volts supports high-performance applications, making it ideal for supercars and luxury EVs.
The Charging Revolution
The headline feature is the charging speed. At six and a half minutes for a 10% to 80% charge, Rimac’s battery could make range anxiety a thing of the past. For context, filling a gas tank and grabbing a coffee often takes longer, especially if there’s a line at the pump. However, this speed requires DC fast chargers capable of delivering beyond the current 350 kW standard. Rimac is banking on infrastructure catching up by the battery’s debut in Q4 2027, giving charging networks time to deploy 400 kW or higher stalls.
This rapid charging doesn’t compromise longevity. The solid-state design, using pouch cells assembled via a cell-to-pack method, enhances durability by eliminating liquid electrolytes, which can degrade over time. The result is a battery that’s not only fast but also built to last, offering a practical solution for both performance and mainstream EVs.
Rimac’s Broader Vision
Rimac Technology, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Rimac Group, isn’t just innovating for its own hypercars. As a supplier to automakers like BMW, Porsche, and Aston Martin, it’s poised to bring solid-state tech to a wider market. The Munich unveiling also showcased next-generation e-axles and domain controllers, reinforcing Rimac’s role in electrifying the automotive industry. Its partnership with ProLogium, a leader in solid-state battery tech, and Mitsubishi Chemical Group ensures scalable production, with plans to integrate these batteries into high-performance EVs by 2027.
The company’s focus on safety is notable. The absence of flammable liquid electrolytes eliminates fire risks, a critical advantage as EVs face scrutiny over rare but high-profile battery fires. Combined with its compact size—saving 35 liters of space compared to cylindrical packs—this technology could make EVs more appealing to manufacturers and consumers alike.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the specs are impressive, challenges remain. The current charging infrastructure lags behind, with most fast chargers capped at 350 kW. Scaling to 400 kW or beyond will require significant investment from operators like Electrify America and Tesla. Additionally, solid-state batteries, while promising, are complex to manufacture at scale. Rimac’s timeline of Q4 2027 suggests confidence, but production hurdles could delay widespread adoption.
Cost is another factor. Solid-state batteries are pricier than lithium-ion alternatives, though Rimac’s collaboration with ProLogium aims to streamline manufacturing. As prices for lithium-ion batteries have dropped to $139/kWh in 2024, solid-state tech must become cost-competitive to penetrate mainstream markets beyond luxury EVs.
Redefining EV Possibilities
Rimac’s solid-state battery is a bold step toward a future where EVs charge as fast as they accelerate. With unmatched power density, enhanced safety, and a compact design, it addresses key barriers to EV adoption—range, charging time, and safety concerns. As Rimac scales production and charging networks evolve, this technology could transform not just hypercars but the entire EV landscape, making electric driving more convenient than ever.
