Microvast presents fast-charging pouch cell

That battery cells still have great potential is demonstrated by Microvast Europe's latest pouch cell. According to the manufacturer, the new NMC pouch cell MpCO 17.5Ah is supposed to have an energy density of 186 Wh/kg and a very high lifespan of 8,000 cycles. Microvast claims that it can integrate the new cells into its standard battery modules and packs. Interestingly, Microvast Inc., founded in Texas in 2006 as a Chinese-American company, has established its EMEA headquarters in Germany with Microvast GmbH. The production of batteries in Ludwigsfelde, where the European headquarters is also supposed to be relocated, is set to begin the assembly of battery modules and packs in March 2021. Ludwigsfelde is not far from Grünheide. It is likely that Microvast expects to gain synergies with Tesla in the medium term, especially since Tesla is planning another US factory in Texas in return. Additionally, the former IFA truck plant is located in Ludwigsfelde, where Daimler today assembles light commercial vehicles.

According to the company, the first prototype orders are already being assembled and are supposed to be delivered to a Norwegian marine OEM by October 2020. Furthermore, they have received an order from a leading manufacturer of port equipment who wants to install the new MpCO 17.5Ah in their future electric port vehicle. On the road, Microvast sees the cell primarily as an "all-rounder for medium and heavy commercial vehicles." However, they are also suitable for trains, boats, and cars. Importantly, the vehicles should have fast charging capability (a full charge is supposed to take only 20 minutes) and thus significantly increase operating efficiency. The cell is also supposed to withstand extreme frost conditions - specifically, temperatures as low as minus 30 degrees Celsius are mentioned.

What does this mean?

Electromobility via battery is just at the beginning of its development - time and again battery and cell manufacturers present new products with even higher performance capabilities.