Japan closes ranks around solid state batteries for electric cars: seeks 800 km of autonomy

Given the rise of electric cars and therefore, the materials that make up the batteries , we have gone from a novel scenario to a new form of mobility to an uncertain one, in which the shortage of raw materialsand the limitations of batteries Lithium-ion represent obstacles to overcome.

The solid - state batteries have been presented as the ultimate solution to overcome these limitations, so the major Japanese manufacturers have partnered with the government to develop solid-state batteries and cope with competition.

Japan wants to regain its hegemony: 550 km of autonomy by 2025

This same month starts the aforementioned program, which involved manufacturers such as Toyota, Panasonic, Nissan, Honda and the battery manufacturer GS Yuasa, reports the Asian head Nikkei Asian Review . 

And is that Japanese companies in the automotive world want to face, united, the strong competition from countries such as China or South Korea.

The consortium has proposed, through the use of solid electrolytes, to develop a battery in solid state that doubles the autonomy of electric cars, and grant them up to 800 km of autonomy by 2030 . 

For the time being, a more realistic goal is to be achieved within seven years: achieve the 550 km of autonomy.

To support development, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan will provide $ 14 million in funds .

A solid-state battery works on the same principle as a lithium-ion battery; The main difference is in the electrolyte, which in the first case is a liquid and in the second case a solid material. 

This has several advantages:

• Increases the charge density of the battery, so it can store more energy than a lithium-ion battery of the same size.
• It can work even at ambient temperatures of -20ºC.
• It is also safer, because in an accident it would not catch fire.

Therefore, these batteries provide more autonomy, less recharge time and higher level of security . 

In fact, Porsche , Toyota (probably the manufacturer that is more advanced in this race) or Fisker are some of the manufacturers that are already committed to this technology.

Recall that Japan has scored a good goal recently to find in its seabed centuries of supply of rare earths , one of the main ingredients that carry the permanent magnets of the batteries of electric cars. 

This discovery has put in check the dominance of China, which in 2009 produced 95% of the rare earth consumed by the world.