The future roll out of EVs will depend on the performance of their batteries. And that’s because the bulk of the motoring population will only make the switch when these have longer driving ranges, and can recharge more efficiently. We’ve heard Toyota is moving towards solid state batteries for its next generation electric vehicles. And so we decided to provide an update on this promising technology.
What’s the Advantage of Solid State Batteries?
Conventional lithium-ion batteries use liquid electrolyte for the pathway their ions follow, when they shuttle between electrodes. This is not the most technically-smart option nowadays, and moreover the liquid is flammable and chemically unstable.
Solid-state batteries offer a non-flammable, more stable alternative, comprising thin layers of solid electrolyte material. The solution has become common in pacemakers and smart watches according to Times Live. However, the EV market has been slow to take up this prospect.
Now Toyota claims it has overcome certain concerns affecting solid state batteries. And it says this achievement has opened the door to mass production within the next four-to-five years. If the motor manufacturer succeeds, then this could be a seminal moment in the rollout of electric vehicles.
Additional Benefits Toyota Hopes To Harvest
Times Live mentions that solid state lithium-ion batteries could be the ‘kiss of death’ for combustion engine manufacturers. That’s because solid state’s greater capacity holds the promise of more power, and extended driving ranges. But that is not all …
- A March 2023 poll by Reuters revealed that 35% of Americans want driving ranges of more than 500 miles.
- Most Americans expect to be able to charge electric cars in the same time it takes to fill gasoline autos.
- Times Live cites Toyota saying it expects its new solid-state batteries to charge in 10 minutes or less.
Now that’s a great possibility on the cards, but it remains to be seen how Toyota plans on achieving this. Many developers have unsuccessfully tried to design a solid electrolyte that is chemically stable, but also competes in price. If Toyota succeeds in doing so, then it will have raised the bar for its competitors.
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