by Revolutionary Batteries in Production
Advanced solid-state batteries have long been considered the most promising technology for electric vehicles, and Subaru has joined other Japanese brands like Toyota and Nissan in working on the implementation of these innovative batteries. However, instead of using them in their electric cars, the company decided to apply them in robots that assemble engines and transmissions.
Technology and Advantages
The batteries in question come from the Japanese electronics company Maxell Ltd and were initially used as backup batteries in industrial equipment to protect against computer memory loss. These solid-state cells, similar to those planned for use in future electric vehicles, have a ceramic-like electrolyte instead of a liquid one, making them more energy-dense and allowing for support of fast charging compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.
Why Robots?
Maxell batteries have a capacity of less than 1 kWh, making them too small for use in vehicles. However, they were adapted for robots at Subaru’s plants, which typically require battery replacement every one or two years. These new batteries can last up to 10 years.
According to Auto News, Subaru has already implemented these batteries in nine robots at its Oizumi engine and transmission manufacturing plant, located north of Tokyo.
“By installing solid-state batteries in industrial robots at our plant, Subaru aims to reduce both industrial waste and robot maintenance work through the use of long-life batteries,” the company stated.
Subaru’s Electric Vehicle Strategy
A few months ago, Subaru acknowledged that it was ‘reassessing’ its electrification strategy, becoming one of numerous automakers increasingly concerned about the slowdown in electric vehicle sales growth in certain markets. However, it recently introduced its second electric vehicle for North America called the Uncharted.
It is the brand’s interpretation of the new electric Toyota C-HR, but with a slightly more rugged design. The flagship model has two electric motors that together produce 338 hp and allow acceleration to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5 seconds.
Interestingly, despite caution regarding a mass transition to electric vehicles, Subaru continues to invest in innovations like solid-state batteries, which may indicate the company’s long-term strategy. The use of these technologies in industry not only contributes to increased production efficiency but could also become a testing ground for future applications in transportation. This demonstrates how automakers can gradually implement new developments, combining them with traditional approaches.
