The global energy landscape is shifting rapidly, driven by the urgent need for cleaner, more efficient storage solutions. As intermittent renewables become a dominant force, solid-state batteries are emerging as a transformative technology poised to revolutionise everything from electric vehicles to medical devices. One company leading the charge is Ilika, a UK-based innovator pioneering the commercialisation of solid-state battery technology.
Ilika was founded in 2004 as a spin-out from the University of Southampton, initially focusing on high-throughput materials discovery. Over time, the company honed its expertise in battery development, working closely with industry leaders such as Toyota. Today, Ilika is fully dedicated to advancing solid-state batteries, with two primary product lines: Stereax, designed for miniature medical implants and industrial IoT applications, and Goliath, engineered for electric vehicles and consumer electronics.
Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries replace liquid electrolytes with a solid medium, significantly enhancing safety by eliminating flammability risks. This innovation also paves the way for faster charging, increased energy density, and longer lifespan. Recent trials at the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre have demonstrated Ilika’s ability to transition from pilot-scale production to industrial manufacturing, reinforcing the viability of its technology at scale.
Ilika’s approach to commercialisation is built on strategic partnerships. In 2023, the company licensed its Stereax battery manufacturing to Cirtec Medical in the US, ensuring mass production capability for critical medical applications. Meanwhile, collaborations with automotive giants such as BMW and Tata-owned Agratas highlight the growing demand for Goliath batteries in the EV sector. The potential cost savings of these batteries—estimated at £2,500 per vehicle—make them an attractive proposition for automakers seeking to bridge the price gap between electric and internal combustion vehicles.
Europe and the US face stiff competition from Asia in battery manufacturing. However, Ilika sees solid-state technology as a crucial differentiator that will enable Western markets to compete effectively. Additionally, recycling remains a key consideration. While traditional lithium-ion batteries are recycled at disappointingly low rates, solid-state batteries offer a more straightforward, safer process for recovering valuable materials.
Bringing new battery technology to market presents significant challenges, particularly in industries with long development cycles like automotive manufacturing. Patience and strategic investment are essential. With only a handful of gigafactories currently operating in the UK, Ilika’s flexible approach to licensing its technology globally is a crucial advantage.
Ilika’s Goliath battery stands out due to its oxide-based electrolyte, offering enhanced stability and ease of manufacturing compared to sulphide-based alternatives. This strategic material choice simplifies production while maintaining high performance. The next decade is set to be a defining period for battery innovation, with increasing EV adoption and gigafactory expansions driving further advancements. Ilika remains at the forefront, ensuring solid-state technology plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of energy storage.
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.
