Samsung’s New EV Battery Tech: 600 Miles In 9 Minutes

Samsung presented a significant advancement in battery technology, especially in solid-state batteries. At the SNE Battery Day 2024 event in Seoul, South Korea, the company announced that its pilot solid-state battery production line is fully operational. “We built a pilot line last year to mass-produce solid-state batteries by 2027,” stated Samsung SDI, as reported by The Elec.

These new batteries have already been sent to electric vehicle manufacturers for testing, receiving positive feedback. They stand out for their ability to provide a 600-mile range, recharge in 9 minutes, and have a lifespan of 20 years. Compared to current lithium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries are smaller, lighter, and safer, replacing liquid components with solid ones, which increases safety.

However, due to high production costs, the initial adoption will be limited to the “super premium” electric vehicle segment, which offers a range of about 600 miles (965.61 km) per charge. Additionally, Samsung will introduce high nickel density (NCS) products for the premium segment.

Samsung’s solid-state battery technology boasts an energy density of 500 Wh/kg, nearly double the 270 Wh/kg of conventional electric vehicle batteries, potentially doubling the range of current vehicles. The claim of 9-minute charging likely refers to the standard of charging from 10% or 20% to 80% capacity, a common practice in the industry to protect battery health and longevity.

In addition to solid-state batteries, Samsung is developing more affordable lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and cobalt-free batteries, as well as a dry electrode production method to reduce costs. “We will match the price in the popular and entry-level segments and mass-produce products that can be quickly charged in 9 minutes by 2026,” emphasized Samsung SDI.

Although charging infrastructure remains a challenge, with few high-speed charging stations available, all battery manufacturers are clearly aiming to offer batteries with longer lifespans—Samsung’s vision to extend battery life to 20 years aligns with the market trend, with competitors like CATL already announcing long-lasting batteries. Despite the great progress in solid-state batteries, the company will still face stiff competition from Chinese manufacturers.

Filed in Transportation. Read more about Battery.