SoftBank and Enpower Greentech Collaborate on Solid-State Batteries

SoftBank teamed with the US battery maker Enpower Greentech to develop an all-solid-state battery cell with a lithium metal anode. Two companies stated that this kind of battery will boost capacity and improve safety. They have potential applications in powering IoT devices and mobile base stations.

The companies developed a technology that reduces interface resistance between the cathode active material and solid electrolyte. As a result, batteries have a lower weight ratio in the cathode mixture and increase the specific energy to 300Wh/kg, matching the maximum value of lithium-ion battery cells.

SoftBank cited using an organic liquid electrolyte as an ion conductor in lithium-ion batteries as a safety hazard, noting the solid-state option removes the risk of the liquid leaking or igniting. It stated use of a solid electrolyte is expected to improve battery lifetime and temperature characteristics and expand the operation voltage range.

Enpower Greentech was founded in 2012 and developed ultra-high energy density solid-state batteries for the drone and electric vehicle markets. It raised $35 million in a pair of funding rounds 2022 from investors including Sequoia China and Dayone Capital. It also collaborates with SoftBank Group and automotive OEMs.