Toyota and Japanese oil giant Idemitsu Kosan have been working together to develop mass production technology for solid electrolytes, a crucial component in all-solid-state EV batteries. The companies first began collaborating in October 2023, focusing on sulfide solid electrolytes, which are considered a promising material due to their softness and adhesiveness.
This collaboration is driven by Idemitsu Kosan's massive sulfur streams produced during fuel desulfurization, which can be converted into high-margin materials like lithium sulfide. The companies aim to commercialize their all-solid-state batteries for a battery-electric Toyota with 1,000 km of range and 10-80% charging in about 10 minutes by 2027-28.
Toyota is also partnering with Sumitomo Metal Mining to secure high-performance cathode materials for the new solid-state battery plant. The collaboration is seen as a strategic move by Toyota to win the solid-state battery race, with Idemitsu Kosan's expertise in sulfur components and Toyota's leadership in EV technology.
As the companies move forward, they are expected to produce several hundred metric tons of solid electrolyte material once the new factory is fully online. This partnership highlights the growing importance of sustainable energy solutions and the role of oil companies in the transition to electric vehicles.
This collaboration between Toyota and Idemitsu Kosan demonstrates the increasing involvement of oil companies in the EV sector, driven by the conversion of low-value sulfur into high-margin materials. As the demand for solid-state batteries continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how this partnership unfolds and whether other companies follow suit.
