GEN4 Battery: How Blue Solutions is revolutionizing electric mobility with its groundbreaking technology
Published on 05/02 at 09:00 | This is an extract from FORBES Business, in partnership with SCRIBEO
A French expert in solid-state batteries since 1997 with an international presence, Blue Solutions is developing its fourth generation of lithium-metal batteries. This cutting-edge innovation offers more efficient and higher-performing energy management for equipped vehicles. Interview with Richard Bouveret, Chairman and CEO of Blue Solutions.
Could you introduce Blue Solutions’ expertise in solid-state batteries?
Blue Solutions represents the epitome of French excellence in battery innovation! Since 1997, we have been developing solid-state batteries. Over the past 15 years, we have industrialized and deployed our batteries in a wide range of applications worldwide, including buses, heavy vehicles, construction and port equipment, cars, and energy storage solutions.
In 2024, we reaffirmed our ambition to be a key player in the global battery industry. We established dialogues and signed numerous partnerships globally, including seven co-development agreements for next-generation battery solutions. Our client and partner portfolio now includes several global leaders across industries such as automotive, micro-mobility, consumer electronics, and even flying machines.
What are the challenges in this sector, and how are you addressing them?
The electric vehicle market has faced significant turbulence recently. Major players have had to redefine their business models, scale back ambitions, and seek subsidies from public institutions as well as private partners.
At Blue Solutions, we have focused on building new R&D collaborations in recent years with laboratories in France and Switzerland. These partnerships aim to strengthen our expertise in cutting-edge areas such as electrochemistry, mechatronics, and advanced battery manufacturing processes.
Since 2023, we have been collaborating with Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) and its subsidiary, SolidEdge Solution Inc. This partnership enhances our capabilities by advancing the development and production of next-generation batteries for electric two-wheelers.
Could you tell us about your BeeWi project? What does it involve?
The BeeWi project is directly linked to our GEN4 battery, representing the 4th generation of lithium-metal batteries we’ve developed. The goal is simple: outperform the previous generation.
This new-generation battery excels in optimizing vehicle performance. It reduces charging time while increasing battery lifespan. Lightweight and compact, it is also more resistant to temperature variations. In 2025, we launched the BeeWi electric scooter project to demonstrate our plug-and-play battery solution, offering higher energy density and extended range without compromising size or weight.
What was the objective behind developing the BeeWi electric scooter project?
We wanted to showcase the capabilities of our 4th-generation technology. And we’ve proven its relevance!
In October 2025, we conducted a comparative test under the supervision of a bailiff at our Quimper factory, using an electric scooter provided by the Breton manufacturer Easy-Watts. During the first test, equipped with its original battery, the vehicle achieved a range of 62.9 km. A second test, using GEN4 battery developed by Blue Solutions, followed.
The scooter equipped with GEN4 battery achieved a range of over 106 km – 68.8% more than the original battery. Without altering the battery’s geometry, this technology also reduced its weight by 13%. Applied to a car, such an advancement could increase the range from 600 km to over 1,000 km per charge.
How does this project highlight your expertise in next-generation batteries?
The BeeWi project tests were conducted under strict protocols, ensuring identical conditions for speed zones, climate, and driving scenarios. Both systems used NMC (Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt) cathodes to ensure comparability.
The performance of the BeeWi scooter is a testament to Blue Solutions’ expertise, from the manufacturing of thin films to system integration. It demonstrates the feasibility of lithium-metal batteries with ultra-thin 30-micron anodes and advanced polymer electrolytes operating at ambient temperatures.
This demonstration exceeded our expectations and opens new opportunities. We are already collaborating with a partner to deploy these innovations in the rapidly growing two-wheeler market, particularly in Asia. Our commitment remains to deliver tangible results that align with our roadmap.
To enhance safety and user experience, we also launched BeeWatch, a real-time monitoring system that wirelessly transmits key battery data to the rider and a control center.
