TrendForce’s report on the “Development of Solid-State Batteries for NEVs” has news for the EV industry: Automakers are actively ramping up their investments and research into solid-state batteries. With the integration of high-activity cathode and anode materials, these solid-state batteries are projected to enter mass production sometime between 2030 and 2035. Their energy density could reach 500 Wh/kg, offering a driving range two to three times greater than existing liquid lithium batteries, and rivaling the range of traditional gasoline vehicles

NEVs currently rely primarily on liquid lithium batteries, classified into two main types based on its cathode material: Nickel Cobalt Manganese (NCM) and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP). TrendForce reports that both these types are approaching their respective energy density limits. Vehicles powered by NCM batteries have an approximate range of 500–600 km, while LFP-equipped vehicles can cover 300–500 km. However, these ranges fall short by 2–3 times when compared to the 600–1200 km range of gasoline vehicles. While the adoption of higher capacity electrode materials can enhance battery capacity, pairing such high-activity materials with lithium batteries can result in a heightened risk for thermal runaway during charging and discharging due to the liquid electrolyte. Conversely, solid-state electrolytes exhibit more structural stability, effectively preventing short-circuits in the battery. As a result, solid-state batteries are emerging as an optimal battery solution, striking a balance between safety and energy density.

Solid-state electrolytes fall into three categories: sulfides, oxide, and polymers. Depending on the proportion of liquid electrolyte by weight, battery types are further classified into semi-solid or solid-state. Considering the demands for energy density, charge-discharge efficiency, and safety in NEVs, sulfides and oxides have been considered the most suitable materials for solid-state batteries.

Japanese automakers—primarily focusing on sulfides—lead the industry. Toyota, holding a number of patents, has joined hands with Panasonic to establish Prime Planet Energy & Solutions, a company aimed at developing solid-state batteries. Moreover, Toyota recently announced its plans to begin mass-producing solid-state battery-equipped vehicles by 2027, making them the fastest Japanese automakers in the field. Meanwhile, European and American manufacturers are exploring all three paths. Mercedes-Benz, as one of the primary investors in ProLogium Technology, anticipates the debut of their NEVs equipped with solid-state batteries by 2025. On the other hand, Chinese automakers are opting for oxides, and have already initiated the mass production of semi-solid batteries. NIO, Dongfeng Motor, and Seres plan to launch semi-solid battery vehicles possibly within the year, positioning themselves as the quickest to integrate semi-solid batteries. TrendForce, however, notes that the energy density of semi-solid batteries, at roughly 300–400 Wh/kg, noticeably lags behind that of solid-state batteries.

TrendForce points out that although a number of manufacturers are leading the pack in solid-state battery development, the industry at large is still facing issues with impedance during interfacial contact, low ionic conductivity, and high costs. As such, the timeline for mass production and vehicle integration remains uncertain.

For further details of this press release, including the accompanying tables and figures, please visit: https://www.trendforce.com/presscenter/news/20230711-11758.html

For additional insights from TrendForce analysts on the latest tech industry news, trends, and forecasts, please visit our blog at https://insider.trendforce.com/

About TrendForce (www.trendforce.com)

TrendForce is a global provider of the latest development, insight, and analysis of the technology industry. Having served businesses for over a decade, the company has built up a strong membership base of 500,000 subscribers. TrendForce has established a reputation as an organization that offers insightful and accurate analysis of the technology industry through five major research departments: Semiconductor Research, Display Research, Optoelectronics Research, Green Energy Research, and ICT Applications Research. Founded in Taipei, Taiwan in 2000, TrendForce has extended its presence in China since 2004 with offices in Shenzhen and Beijing.

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Solid-state batteries could propel NEVs to compete with gasoline cars on range by 2030, says #TrendForce! Overcoming hurdles such as increasing ionic conductivity and cost reduction are next on the list.