Toyota, Japan’s leading automaker, has announced a pivotal collaboration with major oil company Idemitsu to advance the technology for mass-producing solid-state batteries. These advanced batteries are expected to play a critical role in the future of electric vehicles (EVs). The partnership is a significant step for Toyota, which aims to catch up with competitors like Tesla and China’s BYD in the EV market. Toyota has made substantial strides in hybrid vehicles, such as the Prius, which combine gasoline and battery power but is now committed to strengthening its battery EV offerings.
Solid-state batteries have long been considered vital for the mass commercialization of battery-powered EVs due to their improved stability and reduced fire risk compared to conventional liquid lithium-ion batteries. Toyota and Idemitsu are targeting successful commercialization of all-solid-state batteries by 2027 or 2028, followed by full-scale mass production.
During a press conference in Tokyo, Toyota’s Chief Executive Koji Sato expressed their commitment to this groundbreaking technology, highlighting the future of mobility and the fusion of the automotive and energy sectors. He also noted the innovative material developments that have enhanced stability and durability in these batteries.
The collaboration between Toyota and Idemitsu focuses on sulfide solid electrolytes, which are soft, adhesive, and suitable for mass production. Idemitsu’s Chief Executive Shunichi Kito emphasized that recent innovations have bridged the gap that liquid lithium-ion batteries have held over EVs. A large pilot facility is in the pipeline to develop sulfide solid electrolytes, with a strong emphasis on quality and cost-effectiveness. The subsequent step will be mass production.
Numerous global automakers, including Nissan and Ford, are actively researching solid-state batteries for EVs. Although several technological challenges persist, Toyota aims to commercialize a solid-state battery as early as 2027, significantly reducing charging times to under 10 minutes. The automaker’s aggressive plans include delivering 1.5 million EVs by 2026 by expanding its battery EV portfolio.
The collaboration between Toyota and Idemitsu signifies a crucial leap forward in the development and mass production of solid-state batteries, a key enabler of the electric vehicle revolution.