Honda unveils a demonstration production line for all-solid-state batteries in Japan

Honda has set up a demonstration production line for all-solid-state batteries in in Sakura City, Japan and while moving towards mass production process on this demonstration line, Honda will also determine the basic specifications of the battery cells – with an aim to begin applying its all-solid-state batteries to electrified models that will be introduced to market in the second half of the 2020s.

The demonstration line has a total floor area of 27,400 sq.m and is equipped with facilities and equipment that enable verification of each production process for the all-state-batteries, which include the weighing and the mixing of electrode materials, coating and roll pressing of electrode assembly and the formation of cells, and assembly of the module for the all-solid-state batteries. The construction of the facility building was completed in the spring of this year, and Honda is planning to begin battery production on this demonstration line in January 2025.

Setting a target to realise carbon neutrality for all Honda products and corporate activities by 2050, Honda has set a target to make battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles represent 100 per cent of its new vehicle sales globally by 2040. 

Why make use of all-solid-state-batteries?

Due to their characteristics of high energy density and excellent heat resistance, all-solid-state batteries are expected to be the next-generation batteries that will solve issues that hinder the popularisation of EVs such as range, price, and charging time. In addition to the high energy density and durability achieved by its original material design technology, Honda is striving to lower the cost of the batteries by simplifying the cooling structure by taking advantage of high heat resistance and using highly efficient production processes, thereby achieving a significant advancement of EV performance.

Honda is also conducting speedy research and development in two core areas – material specifications and manufacturing methods – with the aim of starting mass production of the all-solid-state battery in the second half of the 2020s. Even before the battery materials and specifications are determined, the production engineering division has been participating in development and taking part in decisions on battery structure, materials, and production methods, which would be most suitable for vehicle installation. As a result, Honda was able to begin operation of this demonstration line in Sakura City quickly.