Toyota Announces Idemitsu Partnership For Mass Production Of Intensive Electronic Battery

All-solid-state battery. (Doc.Toyota Global)

Toyota has just announced a partnership with Japan's petroleum company, Idemitsu, with the aim of supporting the development of electric vehicles (EVs) through the mass production of solid electrolyte batteries.

This partnership aims to increase productivity and strengthen supply chains to achieve mass production of solid-state batteries, which have been selected by this automotive company. This collaboration also aims to ensure the success of all-solid-state battery commercialization by 2027-2028.

The two companies implemented this collaboration by combining their respective expertise. Idemitsu, skilled in energy and material, works with Toyota which adopts a multi-path approach to drive the development of Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) as an important part towards carbon neutrality.

In order to create a next-generation battery that supports EV battery evolution, we are developing an optimal solution that fits the application and specific characteristics. Among them are high-output batteries and long-distance travel, as well as high-quality versions that are also affordable for extensive use," said Koji Sato, President and CEO of Toyota Motor Corporation, on Thursday, October 12.

This collaboration is focused on developing electrolytes on sulfides, which are recognized as flexible materials and have good mechanical force towards other materials. This makes it easier for manufacturers to produce high-capacity batteries for the BEV model.

To strengthen this partnership, the two companies have set several stages in preparing for full-scale mass production:

Phase One: By providing mutual input and support in development, Idemitsu and Toyota will work together in creating solid sulfide electrolytes, taking into account quality, cost, and work time.

Phase Two: By building a large production facility, Idemitsu will accelerate the manufacture of this material and will acquire technology in mass production. Meanwhile, Toyota will encourage the development of all-solid-state batteries that use solid sulfide electrolytes, as well as the development of the BEV that utilizes the battery. The plan is for the launch of the BEV market with this battery to be carried out in 2027 and 2028.

Phase Three: Based on the results of the previous stages, the two companies will conduct further research and prepare full-scale mass production in the future.

In supporting the evolution of the BEV, Idemitsu has been conducting solid-state battery technology research and development since 2001, while Toyota has started its efforts since 2006.