Toyota’s touted advancements in solid-state battery technology seem to fall short of their initial ambitious claims.
Toyota unveiled its comprehensive battery roadmap in June at a technology briefing, underscoring its commitment to securing a prominent position within the company’s future plans.
The plans centre on two pioneering electric vehicle (EV) battery designs: one prioritizing efficiency and another focused on widespread adoption. Toyota plans to unveil its new-generation electric vehicle in 2026, which will be powered by an efficient battery capable of delivering a remarkable 620-mile (1,000-kilometer) range on the City, Highway and Urban Loop Test Cycle (CLTC).
The revamped model aims to slash prices by 40%, while simultaneously increasing variety by 20% compared to its current bZ4X offering. The technology is expected to integrate Long-Life Pulse (LFP) batteries and is forecasted for practical application by 2026-2027.
According to Toyota’s specifications, the bZ4X boasts a maximum estimated range of approximately 382 miles based on the City Low-Temperature Cycle (CLTC). If we were to extrapolate this value by 20%, we could infer that an additional 76 miles would bring the total estimated range to around 458 miles. The corporation intends to leverage its technology in electric vehicles (EVs) within a “popular price range.”
Toyota will concurrently develop both a cost-effective battery and a high-performance variant featuring a bipolar design and advanced nickel cathodes to significantly boost efficiency.
By 2025, the first commercial production of sodium-ion batteries is expected, reducing costs by 50% compared to lithium-ion batteries.
In 2030, graphene-based supercapacitors could replace traditional batteries, allowing for even faster charging times and higher power outputs.
SKIP
Will Toyota’s solid-state EV batteries be restricted?
Toyota accelerates development of groundbreaking solid-state batteries following significant technological advancement.
Toyota’s solid-state electric vehicle (EV) batteries are expected to see a notable enhancement of around 20%, allowing for rapid recharging in just 20 minutes. The corporation is reportedly considering the development of a cutting-edge battery that aims to boost performance levels by an impressive 50%.
Two variations are deliberate. The electric vehicles have a range of approximately 621 miles for one model, while the other is expected to surpass 745 miles, according to Toyota’s specifications.
The corporation aims to bring its technology to market by 2027-2028, but it will likely face significant limitations if this timeline is met.
A breakthrough in mass manufacturing of a new technology is anticipated by 2030 and beyond, with potential far-reaching implications. Last month, Toyota joined forces with Japanese energy company Idemitsu Kosan to accelerate innovation in this field.
Despite the report’s findings, it confirms that Toyota’s production capabilities are geared to meet demand for over 10,000 vehicles, aligning with the company’s existing manufacturing plans.
By 2030, Toyota aims to accelerate the promotion of 3.5 million electric vehicles (EVs), which accounts for approximately one-third of its global total sales. The automotive company intends to roll out a fleet of 10 electric vehicles by 2026.
Electrek’s Take
Toyota’s past promises have yet to materialize into tangible results. Despite the manufacturer’s promise of solid-state batteries offering long-range capabilities for over a decade now.
The first EV powered by solid-state batteries was originally slated for release in 2021, before being pushed back to 2022. Now, it’s 2027-2028. By 2030, though, it will still face limitations.
They are merely conceptions that cannot be elevated further. Launch instances are subject to precise changes prior to arrival.
Toyota minimizes its electric vehicle sales forecast for the year by approximately 40% earlier this month. To avoid getting outgunned by value-based electric-vehicle competitors, the corporation plans to focus on its hybrid offerings.
