Solid-state battery – the next-generation battery system

Li-ion batteries have become the primary technology of choice for many applications in the consumer electronics industry and empowered the electric vehicle (EV). However, the flammable liquid electrolyte of Li-ion battery is responsible for safety issues, such as electrolyte leakage, fire, or explosion. In addition, the demand for higher energy density, fast charging capability, lower cost, and safer EVs has recently created a resurgence of interest in solid-state batteries. In its talk, Yole Développement will present the advantages of solid-state batteries over conventional Li-ion batteries as well as the challenges associated with their development, like low ionic conductivity, poor wettability of solid electrolytes, high operating temperature, etc. Solid-state battery manufacturers must achieve battery production processes that are scalable and compatible with existing lithium-ion production technology to remain successful in the overfilled market. Bringing solid-state technology to mass production is a difficult task.

Therefore, partnerships are more important than ever to get all the necessary solid-state battery know-how together: technology, equipment, high-volume / high-yield production, and end-systems. Today, many batteries and automotive manufacturers have presented their target roadmaps for mass production to secure a leadership role in the solid-state battery market despite the remaining technology and supply chain challenges.

The solid-state battery is considered the ultimate battery technology for next-generation battery systems. Based on the achievement of technology milestones and growing supply chain collaborations, Yole Développement expects that solid-state battery commercialization will start in about 2025. However, small-scale production may happen even earlier. The intensive development efforts of EV/HEV makers and their partners will result in a progressive adoption of the solid-state battery as a “premium” battery in the 2025-2030 period. After further optimization and production scaling, solid-state batteries will spread to other applications, but their high added value will remain mainly in e-mobility applications. Yole Dévelopment will analyze the key success factors for mass production of solid-state batteries.