According to foreign media reports, QuantumScape will establish a joint venture with Volkswagen to achieve industrial-grade mass production of solid-state batteries. The two parties plan to build a solid-state lithium battery production line by 2025.
Solid-state battery cells are currently considered one of the most promising technologies for future electric vehicles. This battery technology can also improve the energy density of current lithium-ion batteries, enhance their safety, and improve their fast-charging capabilities. Furthermore, Volkswagen has successfully completed testing of early samples of its QuantumScape solid-state battery in Germany.
According to Yale's analysis, the current strong growth momentum of solid-state batteries will drive the development of the electric vehicle industry.
Currently, many technical modules of solid-state batteries are in the research and development stage, involving the following aspects: electrolyte material screening, improvement of ionic conductivity, stability of electrolyte/motor interface, lithium metal anode, battery separator coating, cell and battery pack manufacturing methods, battery management system and battery pack design.
The strong participation of electric vehicle/hybrid vehicle manufacturers is a key driver of the commercialization of solid-state batteries. In fact, the simplification of battery pack and component design will enhance the cost competitiveness of this type of battery.
According to Yole Développement's market forecast, mass production of solid-state batteries will begin in 2022. By 2025, demand for lithium-ion batteries will be less than 1%. Currently, battery equipment manufacturers have little interest in investing in solid-state batteries, but this situation will change once large-scale solid-state battery manufacturing facilities are established.
