
Southern California-based Mullen Automotive (MULN) has announced a new battery electric vehicle (BEV) exchange program called Power Boost that allows for current Mullen One Class 1 EV cargo van customers to swap out their lithium-ion battery packs for more advanced solid-state polymer battery packs.
The new batteries will reportedly increase vehicle range to over 200 miles, up from 110 miles with the lithium-ion batteries.
The program is only available, however, to customers whose warranties meet existing requirements.
"We value the investment and confidence that our customers place in our vehicles," said David Michery, chairman and CEO of Mullen Automotive. "As we hit new milestones, we are committed to sharing our technological advancements with all our early adopters and this battery exchange program will allow customers the opportunity to upgrade to our solid-state pack."
Solid-state batteries utilize a solid electrolyte instead of the liquid electrolyte used in lithium-ion batteries, thus enabling twice as much energy than lithium-ion units. The solid electrolytes are also less reactive, which translates to longer lifespans and charge cycles.
Lithium-ion batteries are also prone to overheating, swelling and, in some instances, fires.
Last February, Mullen confirmed that road testing had begun for the Class 1 EV cargo van powered by the new solid-state polymer battery pack. Since then, the company has found critical suppliers for the necessary components and ongoing development. Initial purchase orders have also been issued.
Mullen received IRS approval in September 2023 for federal EV tax credits for eligible customers up to $7,500 on its commercial vehicles, including the Mullen One, with a Qualified Manufacturer designation.
[Related: Mullen EV cargo van gets CARB approval]
Brand new, solid-state battery-equipped Mullen One cargo vans will begin rolling off the production line in the second half of 2025.