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Toyota and Sumitomo Metal make progress on solid-state battery materials

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Toyota Motor and Sumitomo Metal Mining announced progress in developing cathode materials for next-generation all-solid-state batteries, a key technology for future electric vehicles. The two Japanese companies, collaborating since 2021, have now created a highly durable cathode material designed to resist degradation during repeated charging cycles.

The partners said the breakthrough uses Sumitomo Metal’s proprietary powder synthesis technology, which enhances battery stability and lifespan. They plan to work jointly on improving performance, safety, and cost efficiency, aiming for the world’s first practical solid-state EV battery.

Solid-state batteries promise faster charging, greater safety, and longer lifespans than conventional lithium-ion systems, but remain limited by high costs and complex production methods. Toyota, the world’s largest automaker, plans to introduce EVs with solid-state batteries by 2027 or 2028.

Sumitomo Metal said it aims to begin mass production of the new cathode material by April 2028, prioritizing supply to Toyota before expanding to other customers.

The partnership underscores Japan’s push to lead the global solid-state battery race. Toyota is also working with Idemitsu Kosan, which is developing lithium sulphide, another vital component for solid-state battery technology.

Panasonic targets breakthrough EV battery within two years

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Panasonic (6752.T) said it aims to develop a new type of higher-capacity battery in about two years, a potential game-changer for electric vehicles and a boost for key customer Tesla (TSLA.O).

The Japanese company is working on an anode-free design that could deliver what it calls a “world-leading level” of energy density by the end of 2027. If successful, the innovation would increase battery capacity by about 25%, extending the range of Tesla’s Model Y by nearly 90 miles (145 km) without enlarging the pack.

Alternatively, Panasonic could use the technology to create lighter, potentially cheaper batteries that maintain current driving ranges with smaller packs. A company executive discussed the project ahead of a Thursday presentation by Shoichiro Watanabe, chief technology officer at Panasonic Energy.

The design removes the anode during manufacturing. Instead, a lithium metal anode forms inside the cell after its first charge, freeing up space for more cathode materials—nickel, cobalt, and aluminum—that boost capacity without increasing size. Panasonic also aims to cut the proportion of costly nickel.

While several global battery producers are pursuing similar technology, Panasonic stressed its version could deliver industry-leading performance. The company declined to provide details on manufacturing costs or whether the advance would allow Tesla to lower vehicle prices.

The push comes as Tesla faces growing competition. Reuters reported earlier this month that Tesla’s U.S. market share fell to its lowest in almost eight years in August, pressured by a flood of rival EV offerings and its aging product lineup.

Japan’s TDK Accelerates Launch of Next-Gen Silicon Anode Batteries Amid Strong Smartphone Demand

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TDK Corp, a leading Japanese electronics components manufacturer and key Apple supplier, is fast-tracking the rollout of its next-generation silicon anode batteries, CEO Noboru Saito told Reuters. Originally scheduled for summer, shipments of the third-generation high-energy batteries will begin “very soon.”

The move comes amid surging interest from smartphone makers, as silicon anode batteries promise higher energy density than conventional lithium-ion technologies—allowing for longer battery life and thinner designs.

Key Highlights:

  • Silicon anode batteries, while still a small part of TDK’s portfolio, represent a strategic focus as smartphone OEMs seek energy efficiency gains.

  • TDK plans to launch its fourth-generation battery “sometime next year.”

  • More than half of TDK’s capital investment over the next three years will go toward its energy segment, which includes battery R&D and production.

Broader Strategic Outlook:

Founded in 1935, TDK has transformed from a household name in cassette tapes to a critical supplier of batteries, sensors, and capacitors for the global tech industry. As demand for smartphones, wearables, and IoT devices accelerates, TDK is positioning its advanced battery tech as a growth engine.

CEO Saito, who has led the company since 2022, also flagged geopolitical risk, particularly from the U.S.–China trade tensions under President Donald Trump’s administration. TDK’s latest forecast included both base and risk-adjusted scenarios to reflect uncertainty in U.S. electronics demand.

“I remain concerned,” Saito said, referring to potential impacts on the U.S. smartphone market, a key revenue source for TDK and its clients.

Despite these external pressures, TDK’s acceleration of cutting-edge battery technology underscores its commitment to staying ahead in energy innovation and meeting OEM demand for more compact, powerful power solutions.