Challenges and Potential in the Mass Production of Solid State Batteries for Electric Vehicles

The future of electric vehicles (EVs) remains heavily dependent on the advancement and widespread adoption of solid state batteries (SSB). These batteries offer significant improvements over traditional liquid-based batteries, making EVs more competitive in the market. However, several technological challenges still need to be addressed before SSBs can be mass-produced and widely adopted.

Current Technological Challenges

One of the primary obstacles in the development of SSBs is the issue of dendrite formation. Dendrites can cause internal short-circuits and often result in battery failure. However, significant progress has been made in overcoming this challenge. In November 2022, the fundamental issues with dendrite formation were effectively resolved, paving the way for commercial development of SSBs.

Advantages of Solid State Batteries

Despite the current technological challenges, SSBs present a wide array of advantages over traditional liquid-based batteries:

Rapid Charging: SSBs can recharge to full capacity in just 15 minutes, making them highly practical for electric cars. Longevity and Reliability: These batteries can retain their charge for several years without degradation, offering a significant improvement in longevity. Light Weight: SSBs are approximately twice as light as their liquid counterparts, which can significantly reduce vehicle weight and improve efficiency. Thermal Stability: Unlike liquid cells, SSBs are not thermally vulnerable, making them safer to use in extreme conditions. Cost Competitiveness: As SSB technology advances, it is expected to bring EV prices closer to those of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, making them more accessible to a broader consumer base.

Reinventing Electric Vehicles: A Simplified Approach

The adoption of SSBs in electric vehicles (EVs) could transform the automotive industry. The lighter weight and higher efficiency of SSBs can lead to several key changes in EV design:

Reduced Motor Power Requirements: EVs with SSBs can use less powerful motors due to their lighter weight. Current EV models often have motors that are overpowered to compensate for the heavy weight of liquid batteries, leading to inefficiencies. With SSBs, this over-engineering can be reduced, leading to simpler, lighter, and more efficient vehicles.

Battery Efficiency and Weight Reduction: The reduction in motor power and the inherent weight of SSBs can lead to a decrease in overall battery size, further reducing the weight of the vehicle. This “Lotus-style” evolution follows the dictum of Colin Chapman, who said, “Simplify and add lightness.”

Future-Proofing Automotive Design: With SSBs offering high power and flexibility, manual gearboxes in EVs might become a feasible concept. Current EVs equipped with SSBs could potentially match the performance and range of supercars, all while offering the same weight and power as traditional ICE vehicles.

Energy Considerations and Future Outlook

While electric vehicles powered by solid state batteries are expected to become more prevalent, it is important to consider the source of the electricity that powers them. In the future, many EVs equipped with SSBs are likely to be powered by coal and nuclear energy. This dual-fuel approach represents a shift towards a more sustainable and reliable power source for these vehicles.

Conclusion

The mass production of solid state batteries holds immense promise for the future of electric vehicles. The resolution of key technological challenges and the myriad benefits of SSBs position them as a critical component in the evolution of the EV market. As these technologies continue to advance, we can expect to see a significant shift in the automotive industry, making EVs more accessible, efficient, and sustainable.