Electric vehicles (EVs) are slowly gaining popularity, but the pace of adoption must accelerate to meet the 2050 net-zero emissions target. Despite advances in EV technology, many drivers remain hesitant to move away from petrol cars due to costs, limited charging stations, and battery concerns. The reliance on lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries has been a significant barrier, particularly given their limitations in range and longevity.
Researchers at Harvard University have made notable progress in addressing these issues. They developed a new “solid-state” battery that promises rapid charging—comparable to filling a petrol tank—and lasts three to six times longer than current EV batteries.
Solid-state batteries, long seen as crucial for transitioning to electric transportation, are being pursued by companies like Toyota and Volkswagen. The benefits include higher energy density, longer lifespan, and greater safety compared to liquid-based Li-ion batteries. These batteries also charge faster, are more resistant to extreme temperatures, and carry a lower risk of overheating or fire.
A recent innovation from Harvard involves a new battery design that uses a lithium-metal anode, which outperforms typical graphite anodes. The design also solves the issue of dendrites—structures that can lead to short circuits. The new battery retains 80% of its capacity after 6,000 charging cycles, equating to roughly 30 years of use. This technology could significantly reduce the cost of EVs and improve their practicality by allowing fast charging.
The potential for solid-state batteries is clear, but many technical challenges need to be solved before they can dominate the market. While breakthroughs are promising, real progress will come from solving engineering issues and scaling production. Industry analysts predict solid-state batteries could become mainstream by 2030, provided these challenges are addressed effectively.
While the advancements in solid-state technology are promising, it will take some years before they truly make an impact. The next decade will be crucial to see if these batteries can move beyond the lab and deliver on their promise in real-world applications.
Ilika plc (LON:IKA) is a pioneer in solid state battery technology enabling solutions for applications in Industrial IoT, MedTech, Electric Vehicles and Consumer Electronics.
