Toyota, the renowned manufacturer of the bZ4X electric crossover, has embarked on an unconventional partnership with Japanese petroleum firm Idemitsu to pioneer a mass-market solid-state battery, slated for deployment in forthcoming electric vehicles, commencing around 2027 or 2028. This unexpected union between the automotive and petroleum sectors was officially unveiled today.
Despite the intriguing irony of a petroleum company, responsible for oil platform operations, venturing into the domain of EV batteries, it is essential to highlight that Idemitsu has been actively engaged in sulfide solid electrolyte research since 2001. The company has already established a small pilot facility, which has continually expanded its output since its announcement in June.
Toyota’s recently unveiled battery technology roadmap has outlined the debut of the initial generation of solid-state batteries for its EV lineup around 2027-2028. These cutting-edge batteries are expected to deliver a remarkable driving range of over 621 miles (1,000 kilometers) on a full charge, with an impressive 10-minute recharge time from 10 percent State of Charge (SoC) to 80 percent using a DC fast charger. The advantages of solid-state batteries over conventional lithium-ion counterparts with liquid electrolytes encompass enhanced stability under extreme temperatures, rapid energy transfer, and a more compact footprint.
The collaborative venture between Toyota and Idemitsu will be executed in three key phases. The first phase is centered around the development of superior sulfide solid electrolytes, with a dedicated focus on quality, cost-effectiveness, and lead times.
The second phase entails the construction of a substantial pilot facility by Idemitsu, with the objective of achieving mass production of solid electrolyte-based batteries. Simultaneously, Toyota will oversee the integration of these innovative all-solid-state batteries into its next-generation battery electric vehicles (BEVs), preparing them for a market launch during the 2027-2028 timeframe.
In the third and final phase, both companies will engage in the quest for future solutions to enable full-scale production and sales of EVs equipped with solid-state batteries. While a specific timeline for the three-phase plan was not disclosed, Toyota’s President and CEO, Koji Sato, highlighted a significant technical challenge for solid-state batteries. He emphasized that the repeated charging and discharging of the battery leads to the formation of cracks between the anodes, cathodes, and solid electrolytes, resulting in a decline in battery performance. Nevertheless, through persistent trial and error and the amalgamation of material technologies from both companies, they have successfully developed a crack-resistant material that demonstrates outstanding performance. This breakthrough, coupled with Toyota’s cathode and anode materials and battery expertise, paves the way toward achieving both exceptional performance and durability in solid-state batteries.
Concurrently, Idemitsu Kosan’s President and CEO, Shunichi Kito, underscored the significance of sulfide-based solid electrolytes, which are byproducts of improving petroleum products. He identified them as the most promising solution to address EV battery challenges, such as cruising range and charging times. Kito mentioned that Idemitsu discovered the utility of sulfur components in the mid-1990s and leveraged their research and technological proficiency cultivated over the years to create a solid electrolyte, poised to herald a new era in mobility.
