Germany - The new all-electric Mercedes-Benz articulated bus eCitaro G can now be ordered with the option of being equipped with solid-state batteries. This battery type is claimed to offer high energy density, long life and be more environmentally friendly.

 According to Mercedes-Benz Buses (a brand and division of EvoBus GmbH of Mannheim, Germany, and subsidiary of Daimler Buses) solid-state batteries have very high energy density, around 25% greater than the coming generation of traditional lithium-ion batteries with liquid electrolyte. The result is an energy content of 441kWh for the new eCitaro G. This battery technology is also free of the chemical element cobalt, which means, Mercedes-Benz says is more environmentally friendly in its manufacture. Their durability allows the manufacturer to provide a basic guarantee for the high-voltage battery for up to 10 years or up to 280MWh of energy throughput per battery pack as standard. They are, however, restricted in their fast charging capability – a trade off against their extended range.