Honda targets 50% weight reduction in solid-state battery packs for mainstream electric vehicles

author: FutureCar Staff    

Honda is making progress in its pilot solid-state battery production and has outlined how it plans to utilize the benefits of this technology. One possibility is that it could double the range of vehicles built on its existing EV platform. Alternatively, it may opt for smaller battery packs in new mass market EVs.

Last year, Honda announced its intention to invest approximately 43 billion yen to build a demonstration line for the production of all-solid-state batteries. The company aims to begin demonstration production in Spring 2024 as part of its electrification strategy, which involves a $40 billion portfolio.

In a recent interview, Honda executives confirmed their plans for EVs powered by solid-state batteries. Unlike some US automakers who have taken the approach of applying their traditional ICE vehicle strategies to EVs, Honda believes the opposite approach is optimal.

Honda believes that the solution to range anxiety is not simply increasing the size of the battery, but rather improving access to charging infrastructure. The company has already announced that it is in the proof-of-concept stage with solid-state batteries, which have the potential to reduce weight and increase the range of the vehicle.

According to Honda's internal testing, the energy density increase provided by solid-state battery technology allows for a 50% reduction in the weight of the battery pack. This means that the same amount of energy can be stored in a smaller and lighter package. Honda's EV strategy head, Shinji Aoyama, explained that this could potentially allow them to double the energy volume in the same car once all-solid-state batteries are introduced.

In anticipation of the future trend towards smaller and more affordable mass market electric vehicles, Honda is also preparing for this era. Aoyama mentioned that when they develop new products, they will consider using smaller battery cases, taking advantage of the design flexibility offered by solid-state batteries.

It is clear that Honda sees solid-state batteries as a key technology for the future of electric vehicles, enabling increased range, reduced weight, and improved design flexibility. As the industry continues to evolve, Honda is positioning itself to adapt and thrive in the changing landscape.

As for consumers, the future of electric vehicles holds promise for smaller and more affordable options, making electric transportation accessible to a wider audience. The shift towards solid-state batteries is an important step in this direction, and Honda is at the forefront of this innovation.

FutureCar Staff