Solid-state batteries promise boosted range and faster charging for EVs

PARIS: A new generation of solid-state batteries could deliver a major breakthrough in the electric vehicle (EV) industry.

Large-scale production projects are multiplying for these batteries, which promise greater range and faster charging.

A first vehicle equipped with this kind of new-generation battery is expected on the market this year.

In terms of technology, these batteries are equipped with an oxide electrolyte and graphite for the anode.

This makes use of solid-state technology, with solid electrodes and a solid electrolyte, instead of the liquid or polymer gel electrolytes found in current lithium-ion or lithium polymer batteries.

The advantage is that, for the same size, a solid-state battery can store more energy and therefore provide a car with greater range.

Charging times could also be greatly reduced. Plus, these batteries promise longer lifespans, and should be safer and less flammable in the event of overheating.

The Chinese lithium battery giant Ganfeng has already announced the upcoming large-scale production of solid-state batteries, a technology it initially unveiled in 2021.

The Chinese manufacturer is obviously not alone in working on this new type of battery, as it is joined by compatriot CATL, which unveiled its own solid-state battery technology last spring, as well as Taiwan's ProLogium and the American firm QuantumSpace.

In China, Nio could be the first carmaker to benefit from this technology, potentially as soon as this summer.

According to the Chinese manufacturer, these new-generation batteries will offer a range of over 1,000km, almost double the performance of conventional lithium-ion batteries.

While China is ahead of the game, the majority of automakers are now moving in this direction.

According to the Financial Times, Toyota reportedly has a solid-state battery in the pipeline, capable of delivering range of up to 1,200 km with a charge time of just 10 minutes.

The battery war has only just begun, it seems.

Note that Tesla, which always stands out from the crowd, will be gradually deploying its new batteries — which are much bigger, but cheaper and, above all, more long-lasting — on its Model Y.

The idea is to offer vehicles with almost equivalent range, but at a lower price than at present.