Toyota Motor Corporation and Sumitomo Metal Mining have signed an agreement to jointly develop and subsequently mass-produce cathode materials for solid-state batteries. These batteries are intended for use in future Toyota electric vehicles. The project builds on ongoing joint research conducted by the two companies since 2021. This collaboration aims to develop materials that maintain their performance after repeated charging and discharging cycles.
According to Sumitomo Metal Mining, a particularly durable cathode material was developed using a proprietary powder synthesis technology, which is now being transitioned to mass production. The company plans to begin mass production of the newly developed cathode material in 2028, initially for Toyota only. Through its collaboration with Toyota, Sumitomo Metal Mining aims to further enhance the durability and safety of these materials while reducing production costs.
Despite technical advances, mass production of solid-state batteries remains challenging. Currently, raw material shortages, complex manufacturing processes, and high costs are slowing down wider market introduction. Nevertheless, Toyota aims to launch its first electric vehicles with this battery technology between 2027 and 2028.
Source:
https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/corporate/43380876.html
