Solid-state batteries (SSBs) are poised to revolutionize the battery industry, ushering in a new era that promises improved energy density, enhanced safety, and superior performance for electric vehicles (EVs). Analysts at Bernstein believe that these next-generation batteries, particularly the all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs), represent the most significant advancement in battery technology in decades.
According to a recent report by the investment bank, ASSBs have the potential to deliver 50% higher energy density at the cell level, reaching an impressive 500Wh/kg. This advancement could enable EVs to achieve a remarkable range of 700-800 kilometers while also offering rapid charging times of under 10 minutes.
The technological promise of ASSBs lies in their ability to outperform current lithium-ion batteries (LiBs) in various key areas. Among the ASSB technologies, sulfide-based batteries stand out due to their exceptional safety performance and longer cycle life. These batteries, currently at the A-sample stage, are expected to reach mass production by 2027.
Leading the charge in ASSB development is Samsung SDI, which plans to decide on building a commercial production line by the end of 2024. However, there are still significant challenges to overcome. The cost of ASSBs is projected to be initially higher than existing Li-ion batteries, limiting their application to high-end markets. Additionally, dendrite formation, a key technological hurdle, remains a significant obstacle. Nonetheless, researchers are actively developing new materials to create stable interfaces between battery components, potentially mitigating this challenge.
A critical innovation in ASSBs is the solid electrolyte, which has become as important as the cathode in terms of cost and significance. The solid electrolyte accounts for about 50% of the cost of an ASSB, significantly higher than the mere 5% it represents in conventional LiBs. Companies such as Idemitsu, Lake Materials, and Cosmo AM&T are emerging as leaders in this crucial area of battery development.
Analysts predict that by the end of this decade, solid-state batteries will begin to replace lithium-ion batteries. Commercialization timelines vary among different companies, with Samsung SDI and CATL aiming for mass production of ASSBs by 2027. Other players like LG Energy Solution and SK Innovation are targeting the end of the decade. Toyota, a significant player in the industry, plans to commercialize SSBs by 2027/28. Meanwhile, emerging companies like QuantumScape and Solid Power are also making significant strides in the field, with QuantumScape securing a major agreement with PowerCo for the production of 40GWh of SSBs per year.
As the development of solid-state batteries continues, the future of energy storage looks promising, with the potential for safer, more efficient, and longer-lasting batteries that can power the electric vehicles of tomorrow.
Solid-state batteries (SSBs) – These are advanced batteries that use solid materials as both the electrodes (anode and cathode) and the electrolyte, instead of the liquid or gel electrolytes used in traditional lithium-ion batteries (LiBs).
All-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) – A type of solid-state battery that utilizes solid materials throughout the entire battery structure, including the electrolyte. ASSBs offer higher energy density, improved safety, and better performance compared to conventional LiBs.
Energy density – The amount of energy that can be stored in a given battery weight or volume. Higher energy density means the battery can store more energy, leading to increased range for electric vehicles.
Analysts at Bernstein – Refers to the experts at the investment bank Bernstein who have conducted research and analysis on solid-state batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries (LiBs) – Commonly used rechargeable batteries that employ lithium ions as the charge carriers. LiBs have been widely used in consumer electronics and electric vehicles.
Sulfide-based batteries – A type of all-solid-state battery technology that uses sulfide-based electrolytes. These batteries are known for their excellent safety performance and longer cycle life.
A-sample stage – Refers to the stage in battery development where the initial samples of a new technology are created and tested for viability.
Dendrite formation – A phenomenon in which microscopic metal fibers, called dendrites, grow between the electrodes in a battery. Dendrite formation can lead to short circuits and decreased battery performance.
Solid electrolyte – The part of the battery that conducts ions between the cathode and anode. In solid-state batteries, the solid electrolyte replaces the liquid or gel electrolytes found in traditional LiBs.
Idemitsu, Lake Materials, Cosmo AM&T – These are companies that are active in the development of solid electrolytes for solid-state batteries.
Commercialization timelines – The projected schedules for mass production and market availability of solid-state batteries. Different companies have different target dates for commercialization.
Samsung SDI, CATL – Leading battery manufacturers that are heavily invested in the development of solid-state batteries. Samsung SDI aims for mass production of ASSBs by 2027, while CATL has a similar target.
LG Energy Solution, SK Innovation – Other major players in the battery industry that have committed to developing and commercializing solid-state batteries. LG Energy Solution and SK Innovation plan to achieve mass production of ASSBs by the end of the decade.
Toyota – A significant automotive manufacturer that is actively working on the commercialization of solid-state batteries for electric vehicles. Toyota aims to bring solid-state batteries to market by 2027/28.
QuantumScape, Solid Power – Emerging companies that have made notable progress in solid-state battery technology. QuantumScape has secured a major agreement with PowerCo for the production of a significant amount of SSBs per year.
Related links:
1. Samsung SDI – Solid State Batteries
2. CATL – Solid State Battery Technology
3. LG Energy Solution
4. SK Innovation
5. Toyota Global
6. QuantumScape
7. Solid Power Battery
