Solid-state EV batteries are expected to change the game for electric vehicles and manufacturers are racing to bring this technology to the market. Recently, Honda opened its new demonstration production line for solid-state batteries in Japan.
In an announcement, they said production will begin in January 2025 to figure out how to produce the batteries at a larger scale while also reducing costs.
New Production Process
Honda’s solid-state batteries stand out because they use a roll-pressing technique, which is different from traditional lithium-ion batteries. This technique makes the solid electrolyte layers thicker, which improves the battery’s performance and energy efficiency.
Additionally, battery assembly process by combining is faster because steps like attaching the positive and negative electrodes are combined. This faster process helps reduce the time it takes to make each battery, which cuts down on production costs.
“The all-solid-state battery is an innovative technology that will be a game changer in this EV era. Replacing engines that have been supporting the advancements of automobiles to date, batteries will be the key factor of electrification.” Said Keiji Otsu, President of Honda R&D.
The Race to Bringing Solid State Batteries to Market
Several companies are working on new solid-state batteries for electric vehicles (EVs). These batteries could have better energy storage, faster charging, and improved safety compared to today’s lithium-ion batteries.
QuantumScape is one of the leaders in this field. The company has made good progress with its Alpha-2 prototype cells, which automakers are testing. These cells show better performance than earlier versions. The company plans to start large-scale production of its QSE-5 cells around 2025.
Toyota has also been working on solid-state batteries for a long time. After making a big breakthrough in 2023, Toyota plans to start selling its solid-state EV batteries by 2027, with full production expected in the early 2030s. These batteries could charge in 10 minutes and give EVs a range of up to 750 miles.
Volkswagen (VW) is working with QuantumScape through its PowerCo unit to develop solid-state batteries. They hope these batteries will last longer and hold more energy, making them great for EVs.
Other companies like Hyundai, Nissan, and BMW are also working to bring solid-state batteries to the EV market soon. But even though these batteries show great promise, it will still take a few years before they’re widely available.
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