An update on the progress of solid-state battery development was provided by a leading automotive company. Solid-state batteries, which use a solid electrolyte instead of liquid or gel electrolytes, have the potential to improve the range, cost-efficiency, and safety of electric vehicles (EVs).
Compared to conventional batteries, solid-state batteries offer advantages such as reduced risk of overheating and fire, as well as faster charging capabilities. These batteries have higher density, making it possible for EVs equipped with them to achieve comparable range while reducing overall weight, which is particularly advantageous for high-performance vehicles.
The recent announcement by the company highlighted a significant breakthrough in addressing the durability challenge of solid-state batteries in automotive applications. This advancement will accelerate the adoption of solid-state battery technology in hybrid and electric vehicles.
According to the company’s estimates, with improvements in aerodynamics and weight reduction, an EV with a solid-state battery could achieve a range of 745 miles on a single charge. Ongoing research is focused on developing a more advanced iteration of solid-state batteries that could potentially provide a range of around 930 miles, although specific testing cycles were not specified.
In terms of charging, the company aims to achieve a charging time of 10 minutes or less to replenish a solid-state battery from 10% to 80% capacity when using a DC fast charger. This represents a significant improvement over the current fastest-charging batteries, and it’s important to note that solid-state batteries also offer a much greater range.
