UK-based Ricardo is joining a ‘PowerDrive Line’ project to develop a lithium-based solid-state battery for use in electric vehicles (EVs).
The global engineering and sustainability consultancy will collaborate with the likes of Honda R&D, University College London, and project leader Ilika— a UK research and development company— to establish a pre-pilot line for solid-state technology, building upon Ilika’s Stereax manufacturing process.
Ricardo will design and construct a prototype, applying its EV battery management system (BMS) technology to monitor and control the battery cells and pack during use, providing information that is often essential for development of new cell chemistries.
Ricardo will also develop its BMS to enable capability for “super- and ultrafast charging ratings of 50-350 kilowatts”.
The 30-month collaborative project will also develop materials and processes for a new UK-based solid-state materials supply chain, Ricardo said.
Ricardo’s MD of hybrid and electric systems Martin Tolliday said: “If successful, solid-state battery systems could have a transformative effect on the market for EVs and PHEVs, helping the world decarbonise road transportation more quickly and effectively than would otherwise be possible.”
The PowerDrive Line project has gained funding under the second round of the UK government’s Faraday Battery Challenge, launched in 2017 to support innovation in the energy storage industry.
