Hyundai's Solid-State Battery Plans
Hyundai research chief Manfred Harrer, a former Porsche and BMW engineer, stated that solid-state batteries are crucial for the industry, and his company aims to develop them internally and with Solid Power to own the technology. He predicts small-volume halo cars with solid-state batteries by 2031.
However, Harrer expresses skepticism about the raw material cost problem, believing it won't be solved within the five-year timeline. LG Energy Solution, on the other hand, estimates that solid-state batteries for electric cars will be roughly a decade away.
Key Points:
- Solid-state batteries are considered a significant technological advancement but are currently expensive to produce.
- Hyundai aims to release halo cars with solid-state batteries by 2031.
- Raw material costs are a significant barrier to wider adoption.
- Other companies, like LG, predict a later timeline for solid-state electric vehicles.
External Factors:
France has already invested in a solid-state battery plant in Dunkirk, demonstrating global interest in the technology. Northvolt, a previous European attempt at cell manufacturing, faced significant challenges and failed to achieve its ambitious goals.
Current Status:
No solid-state battery-powered cars are available for mass market purchase. Demonstration cars exist, showcasing the technology, but widespread commercialization is still pending.