Volkswagen is reportedly considering sourcing solid-state batteries from Blue Solutions, a move that could be formalized in the coming months, according to information obtained by Reuters from an insider. While Volkswagen has not commented on these rumors, a spokesperson from Blue Solutions confirmed the company’s ongoing work on a passenger car battery. Blue Solutions has already signed development contracts with BMW and another company and is in negotiations with a third party. Blue Solutions, a subsidiary of the French Bolloré Group, holds significant expertise in solid-state battery technology, with research dating back to the 1980s.
The company is currently the only manufacturer with commercialized solid-state cells, modules, and packs, operating production facilities in France and Canada. Based in Ergué-Gabéric, Blue Solutions utilizes a patented lithium metal polymer technology for its solid-state batteries. In a past interview with Jean-Luc Monfort, the predecessor of current Blue Solutions CEO Richard Bouveret, Monfort discussed ambitions to adapt the technology for the passenger car industry. He emphasized the potential for collaboration and partnerships within Europe to advance solid-state battery technology in the automotive sector. Volkswagen’s interest in partnering with Blue Solutions aligns with its ongoing efforts in solid-state battery development.
The German automotive giant has been collaborating with QuantumScape on solid-state batteries. Recently, Volkswagen’s subsidiary PowerCo reported progress with its US partner’s solid-state battery cells after tests in its laboratories. However, the commercialization timeline has reportedly fallen behind the original schedule. Volkswagen, the main shareholder of QuantumScape, had initially aimed to integrate this technology into its electric cars by 2025, but these targets are now considered unrealistic. Blue Solutions, meanwhile, is broadening its network of customers and partners.
The company supplies solid-state batteries for Daimler Bus’s Mercedes eCitaro and has formed partnerships with various industry players, including Li-Metal, Forsee Power, and Foxconn. As the automotive industry continues to evolve towards electric mobility, collaborations like the potential partnership between Volkswagen and Blue Solutions highlight the sector’s focus on innovative battery technology to drive the next generation of electric vehicles.