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Toyoat says they have developed solid-state batteries that are lighter and more powerful than current batteries. They claim that these batteries will be in production by 2028, and that electric cars using these batteries will have a range of 1200 kilometers and a charging time of just 10 minutes. However, should we be optimistic about the potential of solid-state batteries?
What are solid-state batteries?
Solid-state batteries replace the liquid electrolyte used in conventional lithium-ion batteries with a solid material. Instead of a graphite electrode, a metal oxide electrode, and a liquid electrolyte containing lithium salt, solid-state batteries may use ceramics, sulphides, or other promising materials in place of lithium.
Why is ditching a liquid electrolyte useful?
One advantage of solid-state batteries is that they eliminate the need for lithium, which is in short supply and environmentally damaging to mine. Solid-state batteries also offer technical advantages, including improved safety (as they are less susceptible to fires) and faster charging times. Additionally, solid-state batteries have lower density, allowing for smaller and lighter battery designs, potentially enabling smaller and lighter electric cars or even electric aircraft.
How far away are solid-state batteries?
While solid-state batteries have been around for some time and are currently used in medical implants, the key challenge has been finding a cost-effective manufacturing technique. However, car companies like Ford, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz have been investing in research and development for solid-state batteries. Toyota recently signed a deal with Idemitsu Kosan, a Japanese petroleum company, to work on developing a solid-state battery for cars. Other success stories include a team at the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing, who were able to recharge a solid-state lithium-sulphur battery 1400 times, demonstrating its long lifespan. Additionally, NASA has developed a battery made of solid sulphur and selenium cells, which can decrease battery weight by up to 40% and triple its energy density. While these advancements are promising, it remains to be seen which company will be the first to bring solid-state batteries to the market and how much they will enhance battery technology as a whole.
