The recent decline in lithium prices hasn't stopped sodium-ion battery manufacturers. Major electric vehicle battery producers such as CATL and BYD have both unveiled sodium-ion battery projects. However, there are already startups that are moving quickly in the race to commercialize these batteries.
Zoolnasm Energy's Breakthrough
A notable example is Zoolnasm Energy, which has developed sodium-ion battery technology that has attracted the attention of a significant automotive supplier. They will commence supplying Na-ion cells under a four-year agreement starting next year, with mass production expected to kick off by July 2025.
Significant Financial Deal
The sodium-ion battery contract is valued at about $28.1 million, which is a considerable deal, especially since the battery manufacturer aims for an annual production capacity of up to 10 GWh. So far, Zoolnasm has introduced multiple types of Na-ion batteries suited for automotive and grid storage, with impressive energy density reaching 190 Wh/kg.
Innovative Applications
Earlier this spring, the company revealed the NFS-50, a sodium-ion battery cell that utilizes iron sulfate, specifically designed for hybrid powertrains or vehicles with start-stop systems. While the exact uses of their sodium-ion batteries in the partnership with the unnamed automotive parts supplier weren't disclosed, there are suggestions that these cells may serve low-voltage vehicle systems.
Cost-Effectiveness and Advantages
One of the main benefits of Zoolnasm's sodium-ion battery technology, besides the inherent safety and quick charging rates typical of this chemistry, is their longevity, boasting several thousand cycles. Furthermore, these sodium-ion cells can be up to 50% cheaper than lithium batteries, positioning them as a compelling option for budget-friendly vehicles.
Growing Popularity
There are already electric vehicles utilizing sodium-ion batteries on the market, and as more supplier agreements like this one emerge, the technology is likely to gain traction among battery manufacturers and car makers alike.
