Toyota and Idemitsu have collaborated in a joint venture to develop solid-state batteries for electric vehicles (EVs), combining their expertise to revolutionize the construction and capabilities of battery electric vehicles (BEVs). This kind of battery, known for advantages such as faster charging, smaller size, and greater tolerance to high temperatures and voltages, is expected to reshape the electric car industry.
Toyota’s plans involve introducing solid-state battery-powered cars with an estimated range of 620-745 miles and rapid charging times of 10 minutes or less.
The collaboration aims to address challenges associated with solid-state battery technology, such as historical issues in low temperatures, susceptibility to cracking, and high fabrication costs; The partnership leverages Idemitsu’s specialized knowledge in raw material procurement, refining, and solid-state battery design and assembly, combined with Toyota’s expertise in mass production of electric automobiles.
Solid-state battery-powered cars with an estimated range of 620-745 miles and rapid charging times of 10 minutes or less.
Toyota’s President and CEO, Koji Sato, emphasized the collaborative effort’s success in developing a crack-resistant material through repeated trial and error and the combination of material technologies from both companies. The joint venture intends to build a purpose-built plant for mass-producing solid-state batteries, contributing to cost reduction.
The solid-state battery’s benefits include faster ion movement, greater tolerance to high temperatures and voltages, and a smaller physical form, making them suitable for rapid charging. Toyota envisions significant improvements in BEV efficiency, affordability, and design flexibility due to the smaller space requirements of solid-state batteries.
In addition to solid-state batteries, Toyota has revealed plans for three new liquid electrolyte batteries, offering reductions in production costs, rapid charging times, and improved range. The Japanese automaker aims to launch two new BEV models (Urban SUV and Sport Crossover), in Europe in approximately two years, as part of its strategy to expand its BEV lineup.
A New Era for BEVs
While solid-state battery-powered cars are expected to debut around 2027-2028, the advancements in both solid-state and liquid electrolyte battery technologies signal a transformative era for electric vehicles, promising better range, lower costs, and reduced charging times. We’re excited to see what’s coming in the next couple of years!
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