Economy & Tech

Toyota and Idemitsu Join Forces to Produce All-Solid-State Batteries

The synergy between automaker Toyota and energy company Idemitsu is expected to boost Japan-based innovation in the future of electric vehicles.

Published

7 months ago

October 17, 2023

The Sankei Shimbun

President Koji Sato of Toyota Motor Corporation (left) and President Shunichi Kito of Idemitsu Kosan shake hands at a press conference on October 12, Chiyoda War, Tokyo. (©Kyodo)

On October 12, Toyota Motor Corporation and petroleum company Idemitsu Kosan Company, Ltd held a press conference in Tokyo. At the briefing, the companies announced that they have agreed to collaborate on the mass production of all-solid-state batteries.

Analysts expect these batteries to become a crucial component of next-generation electric vehicles (EVs). Toyota indicated its plans to commercialize all-solid-state batteries between 2027-28. President Koji Sato stated, "Although the initial supply will be relatively modest, it is important that we first get them out into the world. After that, we will consider quantitative expansion."

The collaboration targets sulfide solid electrolytes, widely considered a promising substance in achieving high capacity and output. Sulfide-based solid electrolytes are made from sulfur components generated in the manufacturing process of petroleum products. Idemitsu was among the first companies to discover the utility of sulfur components and has been researching them for years.

*Idemitsu Kosan's small pilot facility for solid electrolytes (provided by Toyota Motor Corporation).*

Toward Mass Production

Idemitsu president Shunichi Kito explained, "We are confident that sulfide-based solid electrolytes are the most promising solution for EV battery issues."

"On the other hand," Sato pointed out, "the biggest challenge is durability. By combining our respective technologies, we have developed a crack-resistant material that demonstrates high performance."

Emphasizing their ambitions, Sato declared, "The key to changing the future of cars is the collaboration between the automotive and energy industries. We will achieve mass production of all-solid-state batteries and realize Japan-based innovations."