Everyone Claimed Toyota Was Behind in EVs, But Now It’s Set to Take the Lead | Carscoops

      Toyota is set to introduce the world’s first solid-state battery electric vehicle (EV) by 2027, which promises quicker charging, an extensive range, and a potential transformative impact on the industry.

      There has been considerable criticism directed at Toyota in recent years for not transitioning to electric powertrains as promptly as some rivals. Nevertheless, as the largest car manufacturer globally, Toyota continues to make significant investments in EV technology, reaffirming its commitment to launch new models equipped with all-solid-state batteries by 2027-2028.

      Since 2021, Toyota has collaborated with the Japanese mining firm Sumitomo Metal Mining to develop the cathode materials necessary for solid-state batteries, which have long been regarded as the ultimate solution for electric vehicles.

      Advancements in Size and Performance

      In addition to enhancing range, solid-state batteries are anticipated to be smaller, lighter, and charge more rapidly than current lithium-ion batteries. This technology is also expected to offer increased output and longevity.

      Recently, Toyota established a new agreement with Sumitomo Metal Mining to expedite the mass production of these cathode materials, marking another advancement in commercializing the technology.

      Toyota and Sumitomo report that they have successfully developed a “highly durable cathode material” that can be mass-produced for solid-state batteries using powder synthesis technology. This partnership builds on Sumitomo’s established experience in supplying cathode materials for existing electric vehicles, now modified to meet the higher standards required for solid-state production.

      Toyota's efforts to commercialize solid-state batteries extend beyond its partnership with Sumitomo. Since 2013, it has also been collaborating with Japanese oil company Idemitsu Kosan on the emerging technology.

      Idemitsu Kosan is working on developing lithium sulfide for use in batteries and has plans to establish a large facility capable of producing 1,000 metric tons of the material annually, with mass production expected to commence in 2027.

      A prior roadmap released by Toyota indicated that the first generation of solid-state batteries, anticipated to launch in 2027-2028, will provide a range of up to 1,000 km (621 miles) and will be able to charge from 10-80 percent in just 10 minutes. The second generation is expected to surpass 1,200 kilometers (745 miles), signifying a significant advancement in energy density and efficiency.

      In a statement, Toyota and Sumitomo highlighted their current focus on enhancing the “performance, quality, and safety of cathode materials for all-solid-state batteries while reducing costs for mass production.” Their goal is to “achieve the world’s first practical application of all-solid-state batteries in battery electric vehicles (BEVs).”

      The Global Competition for Solid-State Dominance

      While Toyota aims to be at the forefront of this transition, several other global automakers are also striving for the same objective. Companies such as BMW, Honda, Stellantis, and Mercedes are investing heavily in solid-state technology, with some already testing prototype vehicles. Recently, MG launched the second-generation MG4 featuring semi-solid-state batteries that incorporate approximately five percent liquid electrolyte.

      For those curious, the opening image features a pear-shaped laboratory flask containing a sample of solid-state battery material, included in Toyota's announcement about its all-solid-state battery initiative. Despite the light-hearted comments about its shape, it is indeed a standard scientific container utilized for drying and storing chemical samples during research and production. The powder within is cathode or electrolyte material intended for Toyota's next-generation solid-state EV batteries.