Toyota Partners with Idemitsu Kosan to Develop Solid-State Batteries for Future Electric Vehicles
Toyota has recently announced a collaboration with Japanese oil producer Idemitsu Kosan to develop and produce solid-state batteries for use in upcoming battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). The goal of this partnership is to achieve commercialization of solid-state batteries by 2027-2028 and subsequently commence mass production.
Idemitsu Kosan has been conducting research and development on the elemental technologies for solid-state batteries since 2001, while Toyota has been engaged in similar efforts since 2006. Both companies are currently focusing on sulfide solid electrolytes, which are considered a promising option to achieve the high capacity and output required by BEVs.
The collaboration between Toyota and Idemitsu Kosan will be carried out in three phases. In the first phase, the companies will work together to improve the quality, cost, and lead times of sulfide solid electrolytes. The second phase involves the construction of a large pilot facility operated by Idemitsu, which will manufacture the sulfide solid electrolyte and acquire the necessary technologies for mass production. Finally, Toyota will ensure the market launch of BEVs equipped with all-solid-state batteries by 2027-28.
Solid-state battery technology offers significant advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries, including higher energy density, faster charging times, longer lifespan, and improved safety. These batteries use solid electrolytes instead of liquid electrolytes, eliminating the risk of leakage or combustion. As a result, solid-state batteries have the potential to revolutionize the electric vehicle industry by providing longer ranges and shorter charging times.
Idemitsu has been developing lithium sulfide as an intermediate material using by-products generated during petroleum refining. By leveraging this material and collaborating with Toyota, the company aims to contribute to global carbon neutrality through the development of solid-state batteries.
Addressing a longstanding technical challenge, Toyota President and CEO Koji Sato explained that repeated charging and discharging of batteries often leads to cracks between the cathodes, anodes, and solid electrolytes, which degrade battery performance. Since 2013, Toyota has been working with Idemitsu to solve this issue. Through their combined efforts and material technologies, they have successfully developed a crack-resistant material that demonstrates high performance.
The development of solid-state batteries is a significant step towards achieving Toyota’s vision of sustainable mobility. The company has been actively investing in battery technology and aims to offer BEVs with a range of 621 miles by 2027. Solid-state batteries will play a crucial role in achieving this ambitious goal.
To learn more about Toyota’s commitment to next-generation battery technology, read our article on Toyota’s confirmation of next-gen battery tech and its promise of a 621-mile range by 2027.
In conclusion, the partnership between Toyota and Idemitsu Kosan represents a major milestone in the development of solid-state batteries for electric vehicles. With their combined expertise and resources, these companies are poised to revolutionize the automotive industry by introducing BEVs with longer ranges, faster charging times, and enhanced safety. The commercialization of solid-state batteries is expected to bring us one step closer to a sustainable and carbon-neutral future. Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting collaboration between Toyota and Idemitsu Kosan.
