The future of electric cars seems closely tied to the development of solid-state batteries, yet they might not be the sole solution to the existing issues.
While electric vehicles (EVs) hold promise, hurdles like limited range, heavy and costly batteries, and prolonged charging times have deterred potential buyers. Several companies claim to possess technology that could potentially resolve most, if not all, of these challenges.
Toyota has hinted at an imminent breakthrough, joining other automakers collaborating with various battery firms to harness this new technology.
Termed “solid-state batteries,” this innovation is akin to other transformative advancements, forever remaining just a couple of years away. Stellantis, Hyundai, and Volkswagen have also partnered with solid-state battery firms, envisioning smaller, lighter, and more potent batteries that could also be safer in crashes.
However, this technology isn’t without its obstacles. Moreover, it’s not the only route to achieving lighter, more affordable, and rapidly charging EVs for automakers.
The critical divergence between solid-state batteries and the prevalent lithium-ion ones lies in the electrolyte, where the former employs a solid electrolyte as opposed to the liquid in lithium-ion batteries. This solid electrolyte potentially ensures greater safety, as a damaged liquid electrolyte may trigger uncontrollable energy release and fires.
Despite the promise, manufacturers face the challenge of economically producing these batteries in numbers suitable for affordable EV production. Amidst this, established manufacturing techniques for competing battery technologies present a viable alternative.
The landscape remains wide open with various startups exploring different chemical combinations and physical structures. There’s no definitive superior technology, according to battery researcher William Kephart.
Fast charging, a vital consumer demand, poses a challenge for solid-state batteries due to the slower movement of lithium ions through rigid materials compared to liquids, affecting both charging and acceleration times.
Though solid-state batteries might be costlier due to their higher lithium content, advancements in sourcing lithium might reduce costs. Factorial, supported by Stellantis and Mercedes, claims to employ less lithium, potentially slashing expenses as production scales up.
Concurrently, some companies are enhancing traditional liquid-electrolyte batteries, such as OneD Battery Sciences, proposing cost-effective improvements by adding silicone. Others explore semi-solid state batteries, blending features of both types.
GM notes the likelihood of multiple battery technologies tailored for specific EV models and markets, aligning with their Ultium EV design adaptable to diverse battery types, akin to varying engines across different vehicle models and markets.
