Toyota Foresees Slow Ramp-up for Solid-State Batteries

Toyota Motor Corp. aims to introduce electric vehicles with solid-state batteries early next decade, but the company doesn’t expect high-volume applications until about 2030.

The launch timing affirms a report from last year. But initial applications will be limited to trial production and low-volume models, Shinzuo Abe, general manager of Toyota’s powertrain division, tells WardsAuto. He views 2030 as a more realistic timeframe for the technology, which promises significant improvements in driving range and recharging performance.

The longer launch time is in line with projections from other carmakers and battery companies developing solid-state systems. To accelerate the effort, a Japanese consortium was launched earlier this month that includes Toyota, Honda, Nissan and battery suppliers Panasonic and GS Yuasa.

Ford also is evaluating the technology. But the U.S. company notes improvements are needed in terms of current density, cycle life and manufacturing scalability.

California EV specialist Fisker Inc. is developing its own technology that it aims to launch by 2023. The company expects to capitalize on advances in materials and manufacturing processes to cut costs for the emerging technology.