Hyundai Motor Group is on the verge of completing its pilot production line for solid-state batteries at its Uiwang Research Institute, with operations expected to begin in January 2025, according to industry insiders.
Sources familiar with the project have indicated that the installation of equipment is nearly finished, with only logistics automation left to be installed. However, Hyundai has not officially confirmed the details.
Located in Gyeonggi-do province near Seoul, the Uiwang Research Institute is part of Hyundai’s efforts to advance next-generation electrification technologies. In December 2023, Hyundai Mobis, a key supplier to the group, opened the Uiwang Electrification Research Center within the same development center, aimed at accelerating the development of next-generation technologies. It is unclear whether the solid-state battery pilot production is taking place at this center or another unit of the Hyundai Motor Group.
The pilot production line is a key milestone in Hyundai’s efforts to develop solid-state batteries, with the company aiming to test the first vehicles equipped with these batteries by 2025.
The mass production of solid-state batteries is planned for 2030. These batteries are expected to offer higher charging capacity and improved safety compared to current battery technologies, as they eliminate the use of flammable liquid electrolytes.
Hyundai has been pursuing multiple avenues for solid-state battery development, collaborating with specialized developers such as SES AI and Factorial Energy, as well as working with Seoul National University (SNU) on research into the technology.
Additionally, the company has been exploring battery production for conventional lithium-ion cells, including LFP and NCM batteries. A pilot line for NCM cells is set to be established at Hyundai’s research center in Anseong by 2027.
Source: Korean Car Blog
