Toyota’s battery development strategy for its upcoming BEVs is both comprehensive and ambitious.
Top key points of Toyota’s next-generation battery technology:
- Four types of batteries: Toyota is developing four types of batteries for its next-generation BEVs: Performance Li-Ion Battery, Popularization LFP Battery, High-Performance Li-Ion Battery, and Solid-State Battery.
- Longer range and faster charging: These batteries are designed to offer longer range and faster charging than the batteries currently used in BEVs.
- Lower cost: Toyota is also working to reduce the cost of these batteries, making them more affordable for consumers.
- Improved durability: Toyota has made a breakthrough in the durability of solid-state batteries, which could lead to their commercialization in the near future.
- Slimmer battery packs: Toyota is also working to reduce the height of its battery packs, which will improve aerodynamics and range.
Here are the main takeaways
1. Variety of Battery Technologies: Toyota is not putting all its eggs in one basket. They are developing multiple battery types based on different chemistries to cater to various market needs.
2. Performance Li-Ion Battery :
- Expected in 2026.
- Uses lithium-ion chemistry.
- Range of 497 miles.
- Aims for 20% cost reduction from current models.
- Quick charging: 20 minutes from 10-80% SOC.
3. Popularization LFP Battery:
- Expected in 2026-2027.
- Uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry.
- Aims for a 20% increase in range and 40% cost reduction compared to the Toyota bZ4X.
- Quick charging: 30 minutes from 10-80% SOC.
4. High-Performance Li-Ion Battery:
- Expected in 2027-2028.
- Uses a lithium-ion chemistry with a high nickel cathode.
- Range of 621 miles.
- Targets 10% cost reduction from the Performance battery.
- Quick charging: 20 minutes from 10-80% SOC.
5. Solid-State Battery :
- Expected in 2027-2028.
- Overcoming challenges related to battery life and durability.
- Suitable for rapid charging and discharging.
- Aims for a range of 621 miles.
- Quick charging: 10 minutes from 10-80% SOC.
- A higher specification variant is under development targeting a 745-mile range.
6. Aerodynamics & Design: Toyota is looking to optimize the vehicle design by reducing battery height. This not only aids in aerodynamics but also potentially reduces the weight, further boosting the range.
Conclusion
Toyota’s comprehensive battery strategy and development plans suggest that the company is serious about its commitment to electric vehicles. With a variety of battery technologies under development, it is aiming to cater to a broad market segment, from more affordable options to high-performance ones.
