Industry

SK On teams up with Factorial to start push for mass production of 1,200-km solid-state batteries

Battery maker SK On is partnering with U.S. battery startup Factorial Energy to assess whether solid-state batteries can be mass-produced using SK On’s existing lithium-ion production lines. Under an MOU, the companies will review how SK On plants and equipment can support Factorial’s FEST solid-state technology. Factorial is conducting vehicle validation in North America with Stellantis, which has disclosed performance data for a 77Ah FEST cell. Factorial also works with other automakers and has signed similar non-binding agreements with materials companies.

Crypto

U.S. CLARITY Act gains momentum, bitcoin stretches higher

Bitcoin rose above $66,000 to its highest in a month, with expectations of easing regulatory uncertainty after signs of progress on the U.S. CLARITY Act. U.S. spot bitcoin ETFs recorded net inflows for five straight sessions, totaling $727.3 million. Reports said the White House agreed on an ethics provision, though the Senate vote remained uncertain. Macro factors, stablecoin use cases and security issues also drew attention.