Korean automaker Hyundai is working to develop solid-state batteries at its Namyang R&D Centre, eschewing partners such as LG Chem, Samsung SDI and SK Innovation. Solid-state batteries are lighter and less combustible than traditional liquid lithium-ion batteries, and have the potential for higher energy density, but are difficult to manufacture at scale. The company has already begun testing a prototype of an electric car with a battery that can be charged in just 30 minutes.
Korean automaker Hyundai is working to develop solid-state batteries at its Namyang R&D Centre, eschewing partners such as LG Chem, Samsung SDI and SK Innovation. Solid-state batteries are lighter and less combustible than traditional liquid lithium-ion batteries, and have the potential for higher energy density, but are difficult to manufacture at scale. Toyota said it plans to commercialise solid-state batteries around 2020, while industry insiders say Hyundai, with its significantly smaller operation, could commercialise its product by 2025.