Solid-state batteries, which Samsung has introduced, represent a major advancement in EV battery technology and have the potential to completely transform the EV market. With these new batteries, Samsung is putting itself at the forefront of EV battery innovation, promising notable improvements in range, charging time, and lifespan.
With just one charge, Samsung’s recently designed solid-state batteries have an amazing range of up to 600 miles or 965 km. Compared to current EV battery technology, which usually give far lower ranges, this is a significant advance. These batteries can also be recharged in just nine minutes, which is a revolutionary innovation that solves one of the main issues that EV consumers have with lengthy charging times.
The fact that these batteries have a 20-year lifespan is among their most noteworthy innovations. This endurance is a big improvement because it may mean fewer battery replacements and a reduction in the total cost of owning an EV. Additionally, the energy density of the solid-state batteries is 500 Wh/kg, which is almost twice as high as that of the typical EV batteries, which have an average capacity of 270 Wh/kg. The driving range of electric vehicles could be greatly extended by this greater energy density, making them more suitable for longer trips and requiring less frequent recharging.
Solid-state batteries increase safety by reducing the possibility of leaks and fires by substituting solid electrolytes for the liquid electrolytes present in conventional lithium-ion batteries. Samsung has emphasized that these batteries give more design options for vehicles because they are smaller, lighter, and safer. Manufacturers can use the space saved for other features or lower the vehicle’s overall weight by lowering the size and weight of the battery pack.
Due to the high production costs associated with this new technology, Samsung plans to initially target the “super premium” segment of the EV market. This segment includes vehicles that offer exceptional performance and luxury features, typically catering to a wealthier clientele. These premium vehicles are likely to be among the first to showcase the 600-mile range capabilities.
Samsung’s progress in this area aligns with a broader industry trend toward increasing the lifespan and performance of EV batteries. Other manufacturers, including CATL and various Chinese firms, have also announced similar advancements, often referred to as “million-mile” batteries due to their extended lifespan.
One of the key innovations in Samsung’s solid-state battery technology is the use of a silver-carbon (Ag-C) composite layer in the anode. This approach addresses common issues associated with lithium metal anodes, such as dendrite formation, which can compromise battery safety and lifespan. The Ag-C composite layer, being only 5 micrometres thick, allows for a thinner anode, thereby increasing the overall energy density of the battery.
In laboratory tests, this technology enabled the creation of a prototype battery with an energy density of up to 900 Wh/L, capable of powering an EV for up to 800 kilometres (approximately 500 miles) on a single charge. The prototype also demonstrated a cycle life of over 1,000 charges, suggesting a durable and long-lasting battery solution.