Solid-state batteries: Revolutionizing energy storage for next-generation electric vehicles

Solid-state battery (SSB) is the new avenue for achieving safe and high energy density energy storage in both conventional and niche applications. The SSB is a novel technology with a higher specific energy density than traditional batteries. This is possible by replacing the conventional liquid electrolyte inside batteries with a solid electrolyte to bring more benefits and safety. Despite this promise, practical realization and commercial adoption of solid-state batteries remain a challenge due to the underlying material and cell-level issues that need to be overcome. This chapter thus covers the specific challenges, design principles, and performance improvement strategies of the cathode, solid electrolyte, and anode used in solid-state batteries. Perspectives and outlook on specific applications that can benefit from the successful implementation of solid-state battery systems are also discussed. Overall, this study highlights the potential of solid-state batteries for successful commercial deployment in next-generation energy storage systems. For this, it is suggested that commercial production of SSBs will be challenging and will take a few years from now.