On August 28, Nice Energy, also known as Penghui Power in Chinese, hosted a press conference to introduce its innovative all-solid-state battery technology. Some notable features of this technology include its impressive 280 Wh/kg energy density and planned large-scale production by 2026. What’s more, Nice Energy asserts it will be capable of manufacturing the battery with a mere 15% premium over current lithium battery prices. The battery’s capability specifications indicate a maximum capacity of 20 ampere-hours (Ah).
The company revealed that there are currently three dominant technological pathways to achieving solid-state batteries. The Nice Energy company has selected the oxide pathway for its innovative energy storage technology. Corporate officials claim to have successfully overcome the technological hurdles surrounding the development of an oxide-based solid-state electrolyte, thereby achieving a groundbreaking milestone in the creation of high-performance solid-state batteries with improved reliability and efficiency.
Typically, the production of a strong oxide electrolyte necessitates a high-temperature sintering process, thereby inherently imparting brittleness to ceramic materials. Nice Energy has developed an innovative electrolyte-moist coating solution that resolves the complexities surrounding oxide electrolyte preparation, thereby significantly streamlining the manufacturing process. The battery showcased during the unveiling is a pioneering product from this era. Due to the streamlined manufacturing process, it is expected that the cost will rise by approximately just 15% above that of today’s conventional lithium batteries. With further enhancements to the methodology and a reduction in material costs, it is predicted that the fee will converge towards equilibrium within the next three to five years.
By incorporating an inorganic solid-state electrolyte, the battery replaces both the separator and electrolyte, effectively mitigating the safety risks associated with organic electrolytes. As this innovation unfolds, it paves the way for a new epoch of high-capacity solid-state batteries in the ensuing era.
Nice Energy asserts that its innovative solid-state battery boasts an impressive lifespan, with the ability to withstand 600 cycles of charging and discharging, all while functioning seamlessly within a broad temperature range of -20°C to 85°C. Currently, the energy density stands at 280 Wh/kg; Nice Energy envisions surpassing this threshold by 2025, potentially through the strategic incorporation of a higher proportion of silicon-based anodes. By 2025, pilot initiatives in growth and production can be initiated, accompanied by small-scale manufacturing trials. If successful, this could pave the way for a dedicated manufacturing line and large-scale production rollout in 2026.
Founded in 2001, Nice Energy emerged as a pioneer in the production of lithium-ion batteries. While the corporation does manufacture batteries for EVs, this represents just one of five core business sectors; the company appears to prioritize energy storage even more significantly.
Editor’s word:
While the prospect of Nice Energy’s breakthrough is certainly exciting, it remains to be seen whether the company can indeed deliver on its promises by mass-producing such batteries at a competitive cost.
Solid-state batteries are considered the ultimate goal of battery technology due to their high energy density, stability, and inherent safety, as well as their ability to operate across a wide range of temperatures. Notwithstanding the introduction of Nice Energy’s battery, which apparently lacks impressive energy density, with a relatively modest rating of 280 Wh/kg.
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