Toyota has had an on-again off-again relationship with solid-state batteries for over a decade. Making plans to introduce such an energy storage device seems to be a priority right now, but still one in a “near-future” way and behind Chinese competitors. This video explains the advantages and disadvantages of solid-state batteries, but be cautious in terms of its assessments. Several manufacturers have demonstrated capabilities that overshadow some ot the complaints here, as shown in recent blog entries. Panasonic Takeover As part of its immediate plans for battery development, Toyota is taking over its 28-year battery joint venture with Panasonic. The Register reports, “For an undisclosed sum Primearth EV Energy (PEVE) will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Toyota beginning in late March in an effort to ‘strengthen its capabilities in mass-producing automotive batteries,’ according to the Japanese automaker.” Already making prismatic nickel–metal hydride (Ni-MH) and lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery packs for Toyota’s hybrid and EV brands, PEVE will expand into tackle battery …
