Toyota’s next-generation solid-state batteries may realise the dream of 1 000 km driving range and a significant reduction in charging times.
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As it stands, electric mobility is in its infancy. Across the industry, manufacturers have sought to bolster the capabilities of their electrified offerings in reaction to a soft ban on many ICE models that we’ve come to know and love.
Seeking to realise an all-electric fleet by the end of the decade, Toyota is focusing on developing two distinct variants of its solid-state batteries. One will be a performance-oriented battery with a driving range of 1 000 km, a high energy density and a charging time of less than 20 minutes. The other battery format will be a more cost-effective battery used in general-purpose vehicles that the firm claims will have a greater driving range than current BEVs and will be capable of a sub-30-minute charging time.
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The batteries will be composed of a solid electrolyte which is significantly smaller compared to the battery found in the original Prius, however, boasts a 25% increase in power. Additionally, the solid electrolyte construction affords the next-generation batteries a greater tolerance to high voltages and a faster exchange of ions. The only downside of a solid electrolyte battery is its lifespan which is shortened by the constant contracting and expanding of the electrolyte, which can cause cracks that hinder the movement of ions.
Toyota claims that it has developed a technology to overcome this drawback and now seeks to develop its mass production capabilities. Additionally, a smaller form factor contributes to a lower overall weight. Toyota has also geared some of its efforts to improve the aerodynamic qualities of its future BEVs which take inspiration from the technology used by hypersonic rockets.
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We will see these next-generation solid-state batteries underpin the firm’s new BEVs which will debut in 2026 while the firm’s HEVs will utilise the new technology and Toyota hopes to have commercialisation begin in 2027. This may then be the kiss of death for the ICE in commuter vehicles.
