Honda’s solid-state EV batteries to deliver 1000km range by 2030

Jet Sanchez
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Japanese carmaker's new 0 Series EVs poised for big battery breakthroughs.

Japanese carmaker's new 0 Series EVs poised for big battery breakthroughs.

Honda is advancing its electric vehicle (EV) ambitions with solid-state battery technology, aiming to redefine long-distance EV travel. 

The Japanese carmaker projects its next-generation batteries will enable driving ranges of up to 1000km on a single charge by the end of this decade. By 2040, Honda expects to push this even further to 1250km, setting a bold benchmark for EVs.

Honda 0 Series EV Prototype
Honda 0 Series EV SUV Prototype

Honda’s solid-state batteries aim to address three key challenges in EV adoption: range, weight and cost. 

These batteries are expected to be 50% smaller, 35% lighter and 25% cheaper to produce than current lithium-ion cells. 

Moreover, the technology promises faster charging speeds and enhanced safety due to the absence of liquid electrolytes.

Honda 0 Series EV platform
Honda's 0 Series EV platform

Honda is not alone in this pursuit, as automakers like Toyota, Nissan and Volkswagen are also racing to develop solid-state batteries. However, Honda’s approach focuses heavily on sustainable mass production.

Despite the promising outlook, significant hurdles remain. 

Current prototype cells are vastly undersized - approximately 100 times smaller than what’s required for vehicles. Additionally, ceramic separators in these batteries are prone to cracking, and dendrites in the electrolyte can cause short circuits.

Takeshi Ueda, chief engineer at Honda R&D, emphasised the importance of scaling up: “We have to make our prototype battery 100 times bigger. We are working on how to bring them to the mass production phase.”

To tackle these issues, Honda has established a pilot production facility to refine its manufacturing processes.

Honda solid-state battery facility
Honda's new facility for solid-state battery development

Techniques such as roll-pressing for ultra-thin layers and encapsulated climate-controlled areas aim to optimise production efficiency while minimising energy costs.

As the industry evolves, Honda’s solid-state ambitions could redefine standards, offering longer ranges and more affordable solutions. 

While challenges remain, the company’s roadmap points to a future where EVs rival petrol-powered vehicles in practicality and convenience.

Meanwhile, Honda is confident in its progress. 

Keiji Otsu, president of Honda R&D Co., described the technology as transformative: “Our all-solid-state battery will be a game changer in this EV era.”