Date: April 18, 2024. — Nissan Motor Co. is making a significant bet on the future of electric vehicles with two key technological advancements: solid-state batteries and gigacasting. The company has announced plans to begin mass production of solid-state batteries for EVs by early 2029. This move is expected to enhance the efficiency and reduce the costs of future models, positioning Nissan to compete more effectively against industry leaders like Tesla and BYD.
Solid-state batteries are anticipated to be a game-changer for the EV industry. They offer faster charging capabilities and longer lifespan compared to conventional batteries. Nissan aims to start producing these batteries at a pilot plant in Yokohama, near Tokyo, with prototype testing and development already underway. The company expects to commence production of solid-state batteries from March 2025. They plan to ramp up to 100 megawatt hours per month by the financial year starting April 2028.
In addition to solid-state batteries, Nissan is also embracing gigacasting—a process that involves using large casting machines to produce vehicle parts. This method will manufacture the rear floors of EVs. Projected estimates suggest that it will lower manufacturing costs by 10% and reduce the weight of components by 20%. Nissan has experience with casting, having used casting boards for structural parts of front air conditioners for over 15 years at its Tochigi plant.
Nissan plans to launch 30 new models over the next three years, with 16 of them being electrified. This includes eight all-battery powered vehicles and four plug-in hybrids. The company, which pioneered EVs with the Leaf model, now focuses on reducing the cost of the next generation of EVs. Their aim is to make them comparable to internal combustion engine models by 2030, slashing prices by 30%.
The automaker is considering a strategic partnership with Honda Motor Co. They aim to collaborate on key components for EVs and artificial intelligence in automotive software platforms.
This move by Nissan reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and its vision for the future of mobility. Nissan positions itself as a leader in the next-gen EVs with bets on solid-state batteries and gigacasting for vehicles.
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