Chinese battery manufacturer Sunwoda and materials specialist XTC New Energy Materials are collaborating to accelerate the development and commercialization of solid-state batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. The partnership aims to address the technical and industrial challenges of next-generation battery technology, with the ultimate goal of enabling mass production by 2026.
The agreement between Sunwoda’s subsidiary, Sunwoda Electric Vehicle Battery (SEVB), and XTC will focus on innovative solutions, including composite cathode ion and electron conduction networks, high-stability electrolyte films, and lithium-metal anodes designed to prevent dendrite formation and improve coulomb efficiency. “This collaboration combines material innovation with production expertise to meet the rising demand for safer, higher-density batteries,” the companies said in a joint statement.
Sunwoda has already achieved significant milestones in solid-state battery technology, including semi-solid batteries with an energy density of 300 Wh/kg. The company is testing a second-generation semi-solid battery at 400 Wh/kg and has developed a first-generation solid-state battery with similar density on a small scale. “We are progressing toward second-generation solid-state batteries with even higher energy densities,” Sunwoda stated, emphasizing the potential for XTC’s materials to enhance both energy density and safety.
Founded in 2016, XTC has focused on developing and producing cathode materials for batteries, primarily for the domestic Chinese market. The company is expanding its international presence, having announced plans for a facility in France in collaboration with Orano in 2023. The partnership with Sunwoda also includes potential commercial collaborations when the market is ready.
Solid-state batteries are gaining global attention for their potential to revolutionize energy storage with higher performance and safety. In the U.S., Factorial Energy recently scaled up production of its Solstice solid-state cells, developed in partnership with Mercedes-Benz, to a capacity of 40 Ah. The advancements highlight the competitive race to bring solid-state batteries to market.
Source: yicaiglobal.com