Hyundai patents pressurized solid-state EV battery

Hyundai suggests it has taken a giant leap in EV battery technology, filing a patent for an all-solid-state EV battery system in the US. The company aims to bolster battery stability and energy density, striving for longer-lasting and superior-performing electric vehicles. The patent, titled "All-Solid-State Battery System Provided with Pressurizing Device," was granted on December 28, 2023.

Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries utilizing liquid electrolytes, Hyundai envisions a future with a pressurized all-solid-state battery system where pressure remains constant in each cell, irrespective of the charging and discharging rates. The solid electrolyte promises enhanced stability and performance even if damage occurs, addressing a significant concern in the EV batteries.

Solid-state batteries have garnered attention as a potential game-changer, offering promises of increased safety, faster charging, and far superior density. However, this technology is still expensive and hard to make, preventing it from making a significant commercial impact yet.

Hyundai's innovative solution seeks to surmount these challenges. The patented system envisions battery cells arranged within a closed chamber, pressurized by fluid. As many patents go, the description is fairly vague when it comes to details - a pressurizing device controls the fluid supply, while sensors monitor pressure and temperature. A voltage detector tracks each cell's voltage, and a controller initiates charging and discharging within a predefined temperature and pressure parameters. Additionally, a thermostat ensures optimal operating temperatures.

The automotive world is filled with similar developments, with Toyota, GM, Volkswagen, Ford, Nissan, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, and others diligently exploring solid-state battery technology. Hyundai, however, stands firm in its pursuit of becoming one of the top three EV producers by 2030.

CEO Jae Hoon Chang asserts Hyundai's commitment to developing solid-state LFP and NCM batteries, pursuing cost reduction and enhanced flexibility. Hyundai's prior patents for electrolyte solutions, binder solutions, and solid-state battery electrode manufacturing methods clearly show its dedication to staying at the forefront of EV innovation.

Via