SK On, a South Korean battery manufacturer, is positioning itself to lead the way in the development of solid-state batteries for electric vehicles. The company claims to have an advantage with the pouch cell format, which can be easily adapted to accommodate solid-state technology when it becomes commercially viable.
In a recent interview with Bloomberg, SK On’s research and development chief, Park Kisoo, expressed optimism about the potential of solid-state batteries. He believes that when solid-state battery technology becomes mainstream, SK On’s existing expertise in pouch-type cells will give them a competitive edge, potentially allowing them to outperform Chinese rivals in the market.
Solid-state batteries are seen as the next frontier in battery technology for electric vehicles. They replace the liquid electrolyte found in traditional lithium-ion batteries with a solid electrolyte, offering benefits such as higher energy density, faster charging times, longer lifespan, and improved thermal stability.
However, SK On faces tough competition from Chinese battery manufacturers who are already leading the way in semi-solid-state technology. Nio, a Chinese EV manufacturer, has vehicles on the road with semi-solid-state packs, while MG Motor plans to introduce an affordable mass-market EV with a semi-solid-state battery.
Western automakers are also investing in solid-state battery technology. Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis have partnered with startups to test semi-solid-state battery packs in their vehicles, while BMW has demonstrated an all-solid-state battery in a test mule.
Despite the promise of solid-state batteries, experts believe that there is still room for improvement in current lithium-ion technology. SK On is working on advancements in thermal management through immersion cooling, a technology that could benefit not only electric vehicles but also AI data centers and energy storage systems.
With a significant manufacturing footprint and support from major automakers, SK On is well-positioned to capitalize on the potential breakthrough of solid-state battery technology. The company recently received a $9.6 billion loan from the U.S. government to build three massive battery plants in Tennessee and Kentucky, signaling its commitment to future innovation in the electric vehicle industry.
While solid-state technology may still be a few years away from widespread adoption, SK On’s strategic investments and partnerships indicate its readiness to lead the way in the next phase of battery technology for electric vehicles.