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

Top automaker, Honda has unveiled its demo production line for all-solid-state batteries in Sakura City, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan.

A press release on 21 November said the production line is being developed independently by the company towards mass production. 

Honda will determine the basic specifications of the battery cells, and plans to start using its all-solid-state batteries for its electric car models that will be released in the second half of the 2020s.

Testing the waters

As the name implies, the production line is a trial process that replicates processes required for the mass production of all-solid-state batteries. 

The line is equipped with facilities and equipment for verification of each production process, including weighing and mixing of electrode materials, coating and roll pressing of electrode assembly and the formation of cells, and assembly of the module.

Honda completed the construction of the facility in Spring of this year, with almost all necessary equipment for verification already installed.

Battery production in the plant is expected to commence in January 2025, and the auto giant will conduct verification of mass production technologies and costs for each process while also developing battery cell specifications.

By adopting a roll-pressing technique which makes continuous pressing possible, the Honda all-solid-state battery production process will contribute to an increase in the density of the solid electrolyte layers.

Honda also intends to reduce battery costs by taking advantage of economies of scale, so that it can offer more value with its all-solid-state battery technologies to more customers and make mobility better.

Pioneering technology

Over the years, Honda has strove to bring change through technology by pioneering innovation. The company has become the first to launch a motorcycle with V3 engine and electrical compressor. 

It has also become the first to develop a system to support wheelchair athletes. With the production of all-solid-state batteries, Honda is making another huge impact in the electric vehicle industry.