Beijing-based Welion New Energy, a producer of solid-state batteries, and Ola Electric, a maker of electric two-wheelers, have established a strategic alliance. Through this collaboration, a solid-state battery manufacturing industry for Ola Electric’s electric vehicles will be established. The business also intends to begin producing solid-state batteries for sale at its “gigafactory” in Tamil Nadu the following year.
Ola Electric currently sources its cells from Contemporary Amperex Technology and LG Energy Solutions in South Korea. Nonetheless, it is anticipated that this new alliance with Beijing’s Welion New Energy will greatly increase domestic sales manufacturing, lower EV expenses, and create thousands of new job possibilities in the nation. This encouraging achievement demonstrates India’s potential for economic growth in the electric vehicle (EV) industry.
Solid-state batteries have the potential to completely change the EV market thanks to its 1,000 km range and cutting-edge “battery-swapping services.” Long charging times are eliminated thanks to this special service, which enables consumers to easily swap out their empty batteries for fully charged ones. In addition, these batteries are safer, have a longer lifespan, and charge more quickly than traditional lithium-ion batteries, which use volatile liquid electrolytes. Solid-state battery widespread use might have a big impact on India’s economic development in addition to paving the way for a more environmentally friendly and sustainable future for the country.
Solid-state battery technology is not just appealing to Indians. Major corporations worldwide are concentrating on its advancement as well. The largest carmaker in the world, Toyota Motor of Japan, is a strong supporter of solid-state batteries and intends to introduce them to the rest of the world in the near future. This technology’s potential is highlighted by the widespread interest in it.
Nissan is also developing its own pure solid-state battery technology, with the goal of introducing an electric vehicle (EV) by the fiscal year 2028. Similarly, Honda intends to start a test line for solid-state batteries in 2024 with the goal of utilizing these batteries in models by the end of the year. To collaborate on the development of semi-solid-state batteries, Honda has also invested in SES AI.
One of the largest battery manufacturers in the world, CATL, debuted a condensed matter battery in China last year. This semi-solid-state battery is intended to power electric passenger airplanes, and mass manufacturing of EVs is scheduled to begin later in 2023.
