METI, the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, has now certified the development and production plans for Toyota’s next-generation batteries (performance version) and all-solid-state batteries as part of its ‘Supply Assurance Plan for Batteries’ plan.
METI’s policy aims to strengthen and support the production infrastructure of batteries, including battery cells, materials and manufacturing equipment.
Toyota said it aims to contribute to the further development of the Japanese automotive battery industry by advancing battery development and production in Japan. The company also said it seeks to improve the marketability of electric vehicles.
The certified products are the so-called next generation battery, which will be in production from 2026 at a scale of 9GWh per year. The EVs will be energised by regular, liquid-based lithium-ion batteries that will supposedly offer over 750km of range on a full charge. The certification also covers R&D regarding Toyota’s all-solid-state batteries.
Initial production will be very limited, but according to Toyota it will be ramped up through 2027 and 2028. Mass production is planned for 2030 and beyond. The expected range then is around 950km.
In 2023 the Japanese company Idemitsu Kosan and Toyota announced they would work together toward the mass production of all-solid-state batteries. The cooperation concerns solid electrolytes, which are expected to improve safety by reducing the risk of leaks and fires associated with liquid electrolytes.
“We will need various options for batteries, just like we have different variations of engines. It is important to offer battery solutions compatible with a variety of models and customer needs,” said President of Toyota’s BEV Factory, Takero Kato.
Photo: New generation Li-ion battery. Toyota Motors Europe
