Aligning with its goal of rolling out next-generation EVs in 2026, Toyota is working on equipping the new models with all-solid-state batteries as early as 2027. Chinese automaker BYD recently took a step forward to scaling up sodium-ion batteries, and will set up a joint production base in China.
According to Reuters and Nikkei Asia, Toyota said at a recent technical briefing session that it is putting efforts into enabling the mass production of solid-state batteries. Hiroki Nakajima, the automaker's chief technology officer, said the company has found quality material to extend the life of solid-state batteries, a challenge discouraging the technology's commercialization.
Toyota plans to launch EVs with self-developed solid-state batteries in 2027 or 2028, according to media reports.
In an announcement on June 13, the carmaker said it has established BEV Factory, a dedicated organization to accelerate its EV ambition, in May. Takero Kato, BEV Factory's president, said Toyota will realize a cruising range of 1,000 kilometers through measures like next-generation battery integration and sonic technology.
He reaffirmed the company will introduce a full BEV lineup in 2026. BEV Factory aims to produce 1.7 million units by 2030.
Toyota will adjust its manufacturing practices to boost EV production. Kato said the body of next-generation EVs will be built from three main components in a new modular structure. The carmaker will also adopt giga casting to enhance component integration, reducing vehicle development costs and factory investment, Kato added.
On the other hand, BYD's battery subsidiary FinDreams signed a strategic collaboration agreement with China-based Huaihai Holding Group. According to a statement from Huaihai, the pair will jointly establish a sodium-ion battery production base in Xuzhou Economic and Technological Development Zone in Jiangsu province. The goal is to become the world's largest sodium-ion battery system supplier for microcars.
Rumors started to surface in China last year that BYD plans to start mass-producing sodium-ion batteries in 2023, but the company has not confirmed the news.
Huaihai said the partnership with FinDreams will center around microcars, with Huaihai offering market and application resources and FinDreams providing high-quality products and services.
