Toyota to Revolutionize with Solid-State Batteries

Toyota has announced its ambitious plans to integrate cutting-edge solid-state batteries (SSBs) into its vehicles by 2027-2028. These innovative batteries are expected to last up to 40 years, significantly outpacing current lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles. This information comes from Interesting Engineering.
Solid-state batteries utilize solid electrolytes instead of liquid ones, enhancing safety, energy density, and lifespan. They are smaller, lighter, and charge faster, reducing the risk of overheating. Reports indicate that these batteries can provide a range of over 1000 km on a single charge.
In October, Toyota revealed a major breakthrough in solid-state battery development in collaboration with Sumitomo Metal Mining, focusing on the mass production of cathode materials. Their partnership, which began in 2021, aims to address the issue of cathode degradation during multiple charge-discharge cycles. The use of Sumitomo's powder synthesis technology has resulted in a more durable material. Mass production is slated to begin in Japan's 2028 fiscal year, initially for Toyota, and later for the broader market.
Due to the long lifespan of these batteries, they could be reused in two or three vehicles. While lithium-ion batteries retain about 90% capacity over approximately 10 years, solid-state batteries can last up to 40 years. This reduces the carbon footprint of production, as one solid-state battery can replace four conventional ones.
Toyota is also collaborating with Idemitsu Kosan, which is constructing a factory to produce lithium-sulfur — a key material for the new batteries. The factory is expected to have a capacity of 1000 tons per year, with mass production set to begin in 2027.
At the Japan Mobility Show, Toyota representatives noted that the initial phase of the technology will be costly, with price reductions depending on manufacturing processes and demand. The first solid-state batteries are expected to appear in premium models such as Lexus or Century, followed by mass-market vehicles, including the new generation of Toyota Corolla.
Experts point out that the widespread adoption of solid-state batteries will take time due to production complexity, high costs, and limited raw materials. Nevertheless, Toyota's recent developments indicate significant progress toward the commercialization of this technology.