Solid-state Batteries and More: The Technologies Coming to EVs

Why new battery technologies matter for EVs

The battery has a major impact on an EV’s range, charging speed, weight and price. That is why much of today’s development work focuses on storing more energy in less space, extending battery cell life and using critical raw materials more efficiently.

The next generation of batteries is unlikely to rely on a single technology. Different cell chemistries could be used depending on the vehicle class and intended purpose. While high-performance models require particularly high energy density, smaller urban EVs may place greater emphasis on lower costs and readily available raw materials.

Why solid-state batteries are considered so promising for EVs

In a solid-state battery, the electrolyte is solid rather than liquid. This could offer several advantages: a solid-state battery may be safer, lighter and more compact than a conventional lithium-ion battery while also storing more energy. For EVs, this could primarily mean greater range from a battery of a similar size.

However, several technical and economic challenges still need to be overcome before solid-state batteries can be used in EVs on a large scale. Manufacturers need to find reliable ways to produce large battery cells, ensure that the materials remain stable over time and significantly reduce production costs. Some manufacturers are already testing solid-state batteries in prototype vehicles, but it is still difficult to predict when the technology will become widely available in production models.

Sodium-ion batteries: An alternative based on widely available raw materials

Sodium-ion batteries work similarly to lithium-ion batteries, but use sodium instead of lithium. Sodium is widely available around the world and could help diversify supply chains while reducing dependence on certain battery raw materials.

However, today’s sodium-ion cells generally store less energy per kilogram than comparable lithium-based technologies. This means they may initially be particularly suitable for affordable vehicles with moderate range requirements or for stationary energy storage. The technology is moving closer to industrial-scale production and could therefore become part of everyday use sooner than some solid-state solutions.

Other battery innovations for EVs

Alongside solid-state and sodium-ion batteries, companies are continuing to improve existing lithium-ion technology. Silicon-rich anodes, for example, can store more energy than conventional graphite anodes. Manganese-rich or low-cobalt cathodes are also being developed to achieve a better balance between performance, cost and raw material requirements.

Other emerging battery technologies, such as lithium-sulphur and lithium-metal cells, also offer the potential for high energy density. However, many of these concepts are still under development. For the EV battery of the future, impressive laboratory results alone will not be enough. Safety, lifespan, charging performance and cost-effective mass production will be just as important.

How new battery technologies could change range and charging

New battery technologies for EVs could enable longer journeys, shorter charging stops and more compact battery systems. Even more advanced batteries, however, will still depend on reliable charging infrastructure. Particularly in urban areas, conveniently located fast-charging stations will remain important, so drivers can easily fit charging into their daily routines.

JOLT supports this transition with battery-buffered fast-charging solutions in cities. This already allows EV drivers to add meaningful range in a short amount of time – regardless of which battery innovations may eventually be installed beneath the vehicle floor.