Summary
- Hyundai and Kia do not expect to have solid-state batteries for electric vehicles until after 2030
- The Hyundai Motor Group brands, including Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, are collaborating on developing solid-state batteries
- Hyundai is currently developing LFP batteries for affordable EVs independently of Chinese suppliers
- Korean supplier SK On is more optimistic about solid-state battery breakthroughs and prototypes by 2027 and 2029
- Japanese automakers like Nissan, Honda, and Toyota are more confident in solid-state batteries and plan to integrate them into production models later in the decade
Article
Hyundai and Kia are not expected to have solid-state batteries ready for electric vehicles before 2030, according to an executive from Kia. The three brands under the Hyundai Motor Group umbrella are collaborating to develop solid-state batteries, but the commercial viability of the technology is uncertain. The company is focusing on developing its own LFP batteries for affordable EVs, while also working on solid-state batteries.
The more conservative approach to solid-state batteries by Hyundai could leave the door open for a supplier to step in ahead of their in-house effort. Korean supplier SK On has claimed breakthroughs in solid-state battery technology, with prototypes expected to be ready by 2027 and 2029. Additionally, there are other automaker-supported firms and startups working on developing solid-state batteries, but the major Japanese automakers seem more confident in the technology compared to Hyundai Motor Group.
Nissan, Honda, and Toyota are among the automakers with their own solid-state battery programs. Nissan is hoping that solid-state batteries will revolutionize and simplify the EV industry by reducing the size of battery packs and eliminating or reducing the need for cooling systems. Honda anticipates solid-state batteries to be available before the end of the decade, potentially enabling affordable EVs by 2030. Toyota also plans to incorporate solid-state batteries in their production models later this decade.
Hyundai has been proactive in developing LFP batteries independently of Chinese suppliers and has not ruled out the possibility of producing solid-state batteries in-house. The progress of solid-state batteries is uncertain, and Hyundai’s engineers will need to determine when credible technologies are available for production. The automaker is focused on scaling up LFP batteries for affordable EVs but is keeping an eye on advancements in solid-state battery technology.
SK On, a Korean supplier, claims to have made breakthroughs in solid-state battery technology, which could potentially lead to running prototypes by 2027 and 2029. While Hyundai Motor Group is taking a conservative approach to solid-state batteries, other automakers and suppliers are making progress in developing the technology. It remains to be seen if Hyundai will be able to bring solid-state batteries to market before 2030, as other automakers are optimistic about the potential of this technology.
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