All-solid-state batteries, often known as “dream batteries,” are garnering increased interest from individuals in the worldwide battery sector as rivalry for dominance in the industry grows. This is due to the fact that if this battery technology, which can significantly increase batteries’ safety and mileage, is commercialised, it will drastically alter the battery market, which is currently controlled by lithium-ion batteries.
Since they offer a high energy density and no chance of catching fire or exploding, all-solid-state batteries are seen as a super-gap technology that can replace lithium-ion batteries. All-solid-state batteries can extend the range of an electric car by up to 800 km since they can store more energy in the same volume. By 2031, the market for all-solid-state batteries is predicted to reach more than US$8 billion (about 10.4 trillion won), according to IDTechX, a global market research organisation.
Japan – The Global Leader for Solid-State Batteries
In terms of all-solid-state batteries, Japan is the global leader. As of July of last year, Toyota had submitted 1,600 applications for the registration of all-solid-state battery patents. The Japanese carmaker also showcased the first-ever all-solid-state battery-equipped electric vehicle prototype in the world in 2021. At its Tochigi factory in Japan, Honda is constructing a demonstration manufacturing line for all-solid-state batteries with a 2024 launch date.
Korea – Ramping up its Production
The creation of all-solid-state batteries is also accelerating thanks to Korean battery manufacturers. Samsung SDI will complete an all-solid-state battery test production line in the first half of this year and commence mass production of all-solid-state batteries in 2027. In 2029, SK On plans to begin selling all-solid-state batteries. Solid electrolytes and lithium metal anode materials are being developed by the business, with the SK ON Battery Research Center serving as the lead. Beginning in 2026, LG Energy Solution plans to introduce polymer-based all-solid-state batteries, followed by sulfide-based all-solid-state batteries in 2030.
Korean battery manufacturers should currently concentrate on 4680 cylindrical battery technology, according to analysts. Its energy density is five times more and their output is six times greater when compared to traditional batteries; as a result, their mileage has increased by 16 percent. The mass production of LG Energy Solution’s 4680 batteries is expected to start in earnest in the second half of 2023 at Ochang Plant 2 in Korea, where the company is currently expanding the production lines for the batteries. Moreover, Tesla intends to increase 4680 battery output in Texas and California.
Tesla began mass producing 4680 batteries before any other company, according to professor Park Chul-wan of Seojeong College.
Increasing Demand for Lithium Metal Batteries
Also, there is a growing need for lithium metal battery development. According to observers, US battery startup SES is now setting the standard for this technology. Receiving funding from major automakers like General Motors and Hyundai Motor Group has demonstrated its technological prowess.
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