Future automotive batteries: Emerging trends and market perspectives

Abstract

This presentation explores the future of automotive batteries by examining current market dynamics, technological innovations, and long-term market perspectives. Key trends include the development of new active materials, scaling of individual cells, elimination of modules through cell-to-pack design, improved battery and thermal management systems, and the use of structural battery packs with lighter housing materials. The shown market perspectives are based on our neutral, scientific vehicle technology scenario model called VECTOR21, an in-house tool designed to support political and economic decision-makers. Results show that Ni-rich and LFP vehicle models offer relevant market potential, with strong short-term prospects for LFP-based vehicles. However, So-Ion vehicles are expected to reduce LFP’s market share once price parity is reached. Customers with high range requirements will initially prefer plug-in hybrids and later transition to long-range Ni-rich vehicle models. High battery costs will likely limit solid-state batteries to the less price-sensitive large vehicle segment.