The European Union has launched the HyLiST research project to advance solid-state battery technology, a breakthrough expected to deliver higher energy densities, faster charging times, and longer service life compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries.
HyLiST, short for Hybrid Lithium Metal-based Scalable Solid State Battery Manufacturing, is led by the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology and involves a consortium of 13 partners from nine countries. The project seeks to develop a new generation of solid-state batteries that will be more durable, efficient, and environmentally friendly, with potential applications in electric vehicles and aviation.
Over the next 36 months, HyLiST aims to develop a hybrid solid-state electrolyte combined with a high-capacity, cobalt-free lithium nickel manganese oxide (LNMO) cathode and a lithium metal (LiM) anode. This combination is expected to significantly enhance both the performance and safety of solid-state batteries. The project’s focus on scalability and industrialization aligns with the EU’s goal of strengthening European sovereignty in battery technologies and reducing dependence on critical raw materials.
“With HyLiST, we are driving forward one of the most promising battery technologies of the future,” said Meisam Hasanpoor, AIT battery researcher and HyLiST project coordinator. “Our goal is to bring solid-state batteries with high energy density and increased safety to market maturity. This will not only strengthen European competitiveness, but also make a decisive contribution to a sustainable energy supply and to achieving the climate targets of the European Green Deal and the Paris Climate Agreement.”
The project emphasizes resource-efficient manufacturing processes to ensure the competitiveness of the battery cells while delivering superior energy density, rapid charging capabilities, and extended lifespan. The research is expected to benefit industrial material manufacturers and research institutions while reinforcing Europe’s position in the global battery value chain.
Several automotive and battery manufacturers have already made strides in solid-state battery development. Mercedes-Benz is testing solid-state cells from its partner Factorial Energy in a modified EQS, while Volkswagen’s battery unit PowerCo is working with U.S.-based QuantumScape to industrialize the technology. Chinese firms such as BYD and Changan are also making progress, with BYD having produced its first solid-state cells last year and Changan planning to integrate solid-state batteries into mass production soon.
As the HyLiST project progresses, industry observers will closely watch how its innovations contribute to the commercialization of solid-state batteries and the broader push for next-generation energy storage solutions in Europe and beyond.