Honda targets 50% lighter solid-state batteries for mainstream electric vehicles.

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【Summary】Honda plans to use solid-state batteries in their electric vehicles (EVs) to double the range of existing models or put smaller battery packs in new mass-market EVs. The company aims to reduce the weight of the battery pack by 50% using solid-state battery technology. This would allow for more energy volume in the same car and increase the range. Honda believes that better access to charging, rather than larger batteries, is the solution to range anxiety.

FutureCar Staff Aug 24, 2023 9:23 AM PT

Honda targets 50% lighter solid-state batteries for mainstream electric vehicles.

Honda is making progress in its pilot solid-state battery production and has revealed its plans to leverage the advantages of solid-state batteries. One possibility is doubling the range of vehicles built on its existing EV platform. Another option is using smaller packs in new mass market EVs.

Last year, Honda announced its intention to build a demonstration line for the production of all-solid-state batteries. The company invested approximately 43 billion yen in this project and aims to start demonstration production in Spring 2024. This initiative is part of Honda's US$40 billion portfolio electrification strategy.

In a recent interview, Honda executives confirmed their plans for EVs powered by solid-state electrolyte cells. Unlike some US automakers, Honda believes that a different approach is more optimal for EVs. Instead of applying the "bigger is better" ICE vehicle approach, Honda focuses on better access to charging as the solution to range anxiety.

Honda has already announced that it is in the proof-of-concept stage with solid-state technology. It believes that this technology has the potential to reduce weight and increase the range of vehicles. According to Honda's internal testing, the energy density increase from solid-state batteries allows for a 50% reduction in the weight of the battery pack. This means that the energy density would be doubled while maintaining the same volume base.

With the advantages of solid-state batteries, Honda plans to introduce double the energy volume into the same car once all-solid-state technology is implemented. This applies to its existing EV platform and planned models like the Acura ZDX. Additionally, Honda acknowledges the future trend of smaller and cheaper mass market electric vehicles, similar to Tesla's upcoming Model 2. To prepare for this era, Honda will apply a smaller battery case for new products, taking advantage of the design flexibility offered by solid-state batteries.

In conclusion, Honda is making progress in pilot solid-state battery production and has strategic plans to utilize the benefits of this technology. Whether it's doubling the range of vehicles on the existing EV platform or incorporating smaller packs in mass market EVs, Honda is positioning itself for the future of electric vehicles.

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