Japanese OEMs lead solid-state battery goldrush

Delivered by intellectual property specialist Appleyard Lees, Inside Green Innovation: Progress Report 2022 explored activity across several different technology sectors, using patent filings to gauge interest and potential growth. The report found that patent filings in Li-ion battery technology have levelled off, while solid-state innovation is rising significantly, largely driven by Japanese car and electronics manufacturers, including Toyota, Honda and TDK. According to Appleyard Lees, the first Toyota vehicle to feature a solid-state battery is scheduled to launch in 2025.

“Annual priority filings in solid-state battery technology went from 75 in 2015 to more than 400 in five years, with Japan dominating the field,” said Paul Beynon, patent attorney & Appleyard Lees senior associate. “That said, there’s life in Li-ion yet, with battery makers shifting their attention to alternative materials. 

“Equally, there are recent moves to address the recycling challenges of both solid-state and Li-ion batteries, with new patent applications arising from California.”