A significant breakthrough in solid-state battery development has been announced, with Japanese oil refiner Idemitsu Kosan partnering with Toyota to build a facility that will manufacture advanced solid electrolytes. This partnership is crucial for the production of Toyota's solid-state battery packs, which aim to deliver up to 1,000 km (620 miles) of range and charge from 10-80 percent in roughly 10 minutes.
The new pilot plant is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, with Idemitsu Kosan already demonstrating success with two smaller demonstration facilities. Toyota's collaboration extends beyond this partnership, working closely with Sumitomo Metal Mining to secure high-performance cathode materials essential for solid-state battery cells.
This development brings Toyota closer to its goal of launching its first generation of solid-state batteries in 2027-2028. The company is also investing in the second-generation solid-state battery technology, aiming to extend the range to 1,200 kilometers (745 miles) with further reductions in charging time likely.
With several major car manufacturers investing heavily in solid-state batteries, this partnership is a significant step forward for Toyota's EV plans.
This collaboration between Idemitsu Kosan and Toyota marks a crucial milestone in the development of solid-state batteries. The ability to produce high-quality solid electrolytes on a large scale will be instrumental in bringing these batteries to market, enabling the production of long-range electric vehicles with reduced charging times.
