Toyota Targets 2028 for Solid-State Battery EV Launch
Automaker says next-gen batteries are “on schedule” and could redefine electric performance Toyota has reaffirmed its commitment to bringing solid-state batteries (SSBs) to market by 2028 — and possibly as soon as 2027 — as development of the next-generation battery chemistry stays “on schedule,” according to Keiji Kaita, President of Toyota’s Carbon Neutral Advanced Engineering Development Centre. Why Solid-State Matters Traditional lithium-ion packs are heavy, space-consuming, and slow to recharge. Solid-state cells promise to change that equation. By replacing the liquid electrolyte with a solid one, SSBs can deliver higher energy density, faster charging, improved safety, and reduced degradation over time. Kaita told reporters at the Japan Mobility Show that Toyota’s upcoming SSBs will emphasize “high power, compact size, long range and long life.” The company expects to continue using lithium-based chemistry but with far greater efficiency and longevity. Lower Carbon Footprint, Longer Life While acknowledging the environmental challenges of battery production, Kaita said the company’s approach focuses on durability as a sustainability strategy: “The most important thing is to create a high-quality battery with a long life,” he explained. “Compared to traditional batteries, the SSB’s lifespan may be four times longer. So the production carbon footprint is a quarter relatively [to a lithium-ion battery], and we think SSBs have that potential.” What Will Be First to Get SSB Tech? Toyota hasn’t yet confirmed which vehicle will debut the technology. Early speculation suggests the launch model could come from Lexus — potentially the Electrified Sport Concept or the upcoming Century luxury line — to showcase the performance and efficiency benefits of solid-state chemistry. “It needs to be a model which can leverage those qualities: high power, compact size, long range and long life,” said Kaita. “We leave it up to your imagination.” However, Toyota could also pursue scale early by deploying SSBs across its high-volume platforms, such as the next-generation Corolla, Prius, or RAV4. Doing so could deliver a decisive advantage in range, charging time, and manufacturing efficiency versus competitors. Industry-Wide Race to Commercialize Toyota is far from alone in the SSB race. Mercedes-Benz has begun public-road testing of solid-state-equipped EQS prototypes, and Croatian hypercar maker Rimac continues to invest heavily in the field. The technology has become the focus of what many are calling the most significant propulsion breakthrough since the turbocharger. Whether Toyota’s 2028 goal materializes remains to be seen, but if the company delivers on its promise, solid-state batteries could redefine both the premium and mass-market EV landscape — bringing lighter, safer, and faster-charging vehicles within reach. Source:Based on reporting by Ollie Kew for Top Gear (31 Oct 2025)
