UK prepares for production of EV solid state batteries

UK startup Ilika is making significant strides in the production of its solid-state batteries, with plans to send out samples to car manufacturers. The company is currently offering a 10Ah oxide-based solid-state battery cell for customer prototype testing and is in the process of shipping a pilot production line to showcase the technology for potential licensing opportunities. According to Ilika CEO Graeme Purdy, the aim is to provide the UK car industry with a locally developed solid-state battery, emphasizing the importance of establishing a sovereign supply chain for automotive batteries in the UK and Europe.

One of the key motivations behind this initiative is to avoid the pitfalls experienced by failed battery business NorthVolt, which collapsed earlier in the year. Purdy highlights the importance of focus and strategic partnerships in the industry, pointing out that a clear and targeted approach is essential for success. By offering a UK-developed solid-state battery, Ilika aims to capitalize on the growing trend of shortening supply chains post-COVID and leverage the rules of origin agreement between the UK and the EU to streamline production and distribution.

• The sunset of Northvolt

Looking ahead, Ilika is gearing up to release its P1.5 10Ah prototype later in the summer, with plans to engage with tier one suppliers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for potential pack integration. The company has been collaborating with the UK Battery Innovation Centre (UKBIC) to gather data on the 10Ah cells and is part of the UK-funded SiSTEM project, which aims to establish a solid-state battery assembly line capable of producing large-format pouch cells for automotive applications.

“By the end of the year we want to get to the P2 samples at 50Ah as full commercial cells,” said Purdy.

As Ilika progresses towards commercialization, Purdy sheds light on the different stages of sample production in the automotive industry, emphasizing the importance of customizing solutions for specific customer requirements. The company is focused on scaling up its operations and aims to deploy gigafactory-scale production by 2027, with a strategic roadmap in place to meet the evolving needs of the market.

Delving into the technical aspects of their solid-state battery technology, Ilika highlights the use of oxide materials for enhanced stability and scalability. By leveraging oxide ceramics combined with a nickel, manganese cobalt (NMC) cathode and a silicon carbon composite anode, the company aims to optimize performance and safety while reducing costs. Collaborations with industry partners such as Nexeon and Balance Batteries have enabled Ilika to explore innovative solutions for weight savings, extended range, and rapid charging capabilities.

Beyond electric vehicles, Ilika sees potential opportunities in battery energy storage systems (BESS) for renewable energy applications. With a focus on temperature tolerance and cost efficiency, the company is exploring avenues to enhance safety and reduce capital costs in energy storage solutions. By aligning with OEMs and gigafactory developers, Ilika is poised to make a significant impact in the transition towards sustainable and efficient battery technologies.