At the SNE Battery Day 2024 event held in Seoul, South Korea, Samsung SDI showcased its latest advancements in battery technology, with a particular focus on solid-state batteries and their future in the electric vehicle market.

Samsung SDI introduced its new solid-state batteries, which feature an energy density of approximately 500 watt-hours per kilogram, double that of conventional batteries. This technology allows for a potential range of 1000 kilometers or more, though high production costs remain a significant challenge. The company has begun delivering trial batches of these batteries to electric vehicle manufacturers for performance testing. Given their superior size, weight, and safety, Samsung SDI initially targets the luxury segment of the electric vehicle market with long-range capabilities.

Both Samsung and Toyota aim to begin large-scale production of solid-state batteries by 2027, with Toyota set to use these batteries in its Lexus vehicles before expanding to other models. Meanwhile, CATL, the world’s largest electric vehicle battery manufacturer, initially doubted the feasibility of large-scale production of solid-state batteries before 2030, but now aims for a 1% market share of these batteries by 2027.

Simultaneously, Samsung SDI is investing in the development of new technologies, such as LFP batteries and low-cost cobalt-free batteries, as well as improving dry electrode manufacturing techniques to enhance its competitive edge in the market. The company aims to equip its batteries with advanced features like full charge in 9 minutes and a lifespan of up to 20 years. Nevertheless, Chinese companies like NIO have already introduced solid-state batteries with a capacity of 150 kWh and excellent range, putting pressure on Samsung to accelerate its progress in these areas.