Toshiba has begun delivering samples of its new lithium-ion battery featuring a niobium-titanium oxide (NTO) anode, positioning the technology as a fast-charging, long-life alternative to conventional graphite-based batteries in the commercial vehicle sector.
The new battery, branded âSCiB Nb,â is said to match lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells in volumetric energy density while offering advantages in fast charging and durability. Toshiba says the NTO anode allows the battery to reach 80% charge in ten minutes and endure up to 15,000 charge cycles, even with frequent partial charging.
âFrequent charging at designated points along the route allows reductions in number of installed batteries, while long-life performance is expected to lower the total cost of ownership by decreasing the need for frequent battery replacements due to degradation,â the company said in a statement.
Toshiba is developing the battery in collaboration with Brazilian niobium producer CBMM and Japanese trading house Sojitz Corporation. CBMM is one of the worldâs largest niobium suppliers, and Sojitz represents CBMM in Japan. The partners aim to introduce the technology in commercial vehicles, where reliability and rapid turnaround are key operational needs.
The current battery sample is a 50 Ah cell with a nominal voltage of 2.3V and energy densities of 350 Wh/L volumetric and 130 Wh/kg gravimetric. Weighing 860 grams, the cell delivers 1 kW of power and can operate in temperatures ranging from -30°C to +60°C. Toshiba cites a charge rate of 5C, enabling 80% state-of-charge within ten minutes.
Toshiba notes that unlike graphite-based batteries, which may form lithium deposits during rapid charging and raise safety concerns, NTO-based cells avoid such deposits, reducing the risk of short circuits as the battery ages. A pilot test of the new battery was conducted using an electric bus at CBMMâs industrial site in AraxĂĄ, Brazil.
The company previously commercialized the âSCiBâ battery, which uses a lithium titanate anode.