Tag: SK On

  • SK On Advances Longevity of Solid-State Batteries for EVs

    SK On Advances Longevity of Solid-State Batteries for EVs

    Key Takeaways

    1. SK On is developing new solid-state battery prototypes aimed at improving resilience and lifespan compared to current electric vehicle batteries.
    2. The lifespan of electric vehicle batteries can now be extended to three times longer than the typical 100 charge cycles.
    3. A new protective layer for lithium-metal anodes was created by using a solution with lithium nitrate, enhancing battery longevity.
    4. Collaboration with Yonsei University revealed that longer curing times for protective layers can improve discharge capacity in polymer solid-state batteries.
    5. A factory for testing these innovative batteries is being built in partnership with Solid Power, expected to be completed by late 2025.

    SK On is a firm that focuses on the creation and production of electric vehicle batteries. They are currently working on two new solid-state battery prototypes that aim to be more resilient than the batteries we have today. A factory dedicated to testing these innovative batteries is under construction in partnership with Solid Power, with an anticipated completion date in the latter half of 2025.

    Improved Battery Lifespan

    Electric vehicles, like the latest Mercedes-Benz CLA, usually see their batteries lose efficiency after around 100 charge cycles. However, researchers at SK On have reportedly managed to extend that lifespan to three times longer.

    Innovative Methods

    To make this happen, the research team attempted to get rid of the protective layer on the lithium-metal anode by placing it in a solution containing lithium nitrate and other compounds. This approach inadvertently created a new, stronger protective layer.

    The development of this new layer, thanks to lithium oxide, enhances the longevity of lithium-metal batteries. SK On has shared these discoveries in the ACS Energy Letters journal (as noted by Chosun Biz).

    Collaboration with Academia

    In addition, SK On along with Yonsei University studied how the lifespan of gel polymer electrolytes correlates with their thermal stability in polymer solid-state batteries. The researchers found that a longer curing time for the cathode’s protective layer leads to a decreased discharge capacity.

    To investigate this further, they cured the protective layers of two batteries for varying lengths of time. The results showed that the battery cured for 20 minutes had a 34% drop in capacity, whereas the one cured for 60 minutes only experienced a loss of 9.1%.

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  • SK On Targets Mass Production of LFP Batteries for the EV Market by 2026

    SK On Targets Mass Production of LFP Batteries for the EV Market by 2026

    South Korea’s SK On to Begin Mass Production of LFP Batteries in 2026

    South Korean company SK On is planning to start mass production of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries as early as 2026. The company aims to collaborate with major traditional automakers to provide a more cost-effective battery chemistry. SK On’s Chief Administrative Officer, Choi Young-chan, revealed this strategy, which is similar to that of Chinese counterparts.

    Expansion of Battery Supply to Major Automakers

    SK On is already actively involved in supplying electric vehicle (EV) batteries to major automakers like Ford, Volkswagen, and Hyundai. Although the names of the specific original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have not been disclosed, Choi stated that mass production will begin once the ongoing discussions are finalized.

    Growing Adoption of Diverse Battery Chemistries

    The automotive industry is currently experiencing a surge in the adoption of various battery chemistries, including LFP. Manufacturers are striving to reduce costs and ensure a stable supply chain. This announcement from SK On provides the first detailed insight into its LFP battery strategy and outlines a timeline for mass production. Rivals LG Energy Solution and Samsung SDI have also announced their plans to target mass production of LFP products in 2026.

    Focus on Energy Density and Efficiency

    SK On, a battery unit of South Korean energy group SK Innovation, is considering the possibility of manufacturing LFP batteries in Europe or China. Choi acknowledged the challenge of competing with Chinese LFPs on cost but emphasized that the company’s focus is on energy density, charging time, and efficiency rather than price alone.

    Concentration on European Market for LFP Batteries

    Although SK On has production facilities in the United States, South Korea, Hungary, and China, the company is not currently in talks with its U.S. automaker customers regarding LFP supply. Choi explained that the high cost of building LFP factories in the United States makes it less feasible. Instead, the company is primarily concentrating on the European market.

    Chinese Dominance in LFP Production

    Chinese battery manufacturers, such as CATL and BYD, currently dominate global LFP production. They benefit from strong demand in their home market. LFP batteries from Chinese manufacturers are approximately 20% cheaper than nickel-based alternatives, making them an economical option for EVs, although they may have slightly reduced range compared to nickel-based alternatives. SK On is also working on the development of prismatic and cylindrical-type EV batteries, with notable progress in the latter, which is used by Tesla and other automakers.

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