Lithium-ion is widely adopted among OEMs , but the desired battery performance can be found in the solid-state EV batteries to come in the future

The industry has been kept under tight reins as these factors have been held over its head for quite some time . EV range is slowly increasing , but there are promises of further growth there . In terms of cost , lithium-ion batteries just aren ’ t able to keep up with demand , which is also a result of the last point – the limited supply of lithium for automotive use .

In the ever-evolving world of EVs , the race to develop more efficient , long-lasting , and safer batteries is a priority . The transition from liquid electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries to solid-state batteries ( SSBs ) is hailed as a potential game-changer . However , as the switch to SSBs seems imminent , industries are most likely hopeful for , yet vigilant of , change .

UNDERSTANDING SOLID-STATE BATTERIES

Commenting on this is one of the leading companies in the battery technology space . Choi Kyoung-hwan , Head of SK On Next Generation Battery R & D Office – and leading figure in the battery industry – helped us dive deeper into the progress and potential of SSBs as a solution to a number of electrification concerns for businesses and the everyday driver .

Kyoung-hwan paints an optimistic picture , noting , " The battery industry is advancing the development of all-solid-state technology , which is gaining significant attention as the next-generation battery ." With SK On ' s recent announcement of a new oxide-based solid electrolyte with excellent lithium-ion conductivity , the horizon looks promising . " We expect that this breakthrough will expedite the commercialisation of all-solidstate batteries ," adds Kyoung-hwan .

The company is also working on two distinct types of SSBs : high molecular / oxide-

62 [ Nov 2023 ] EVMAGAZINE . COM