Nissan, Oxford University, and Gelion Launch UK Government-Funded CoRe-SoLiS Research Project for Sulfur-Based All-Solid-State Batteries

electrive.com UK

Overview

Nissan Motor, in collaboration with Oxford University and battery materials manufacturer Gelion, has launched the UK government-funded research project ‘Cost-effective, Resilient Solid-state Li–S (CoRe-SoLiS).’ This project aims to develop sulfur-based all-solid-state lithium batteries with high charging power, energy density, and extended lifespan. The plan involves integrating Gelion Technologies’ cost-effective and readily procurable Nano-Encapsulated Sulfur (NES) cathode material into Nissan’s future EV solid-state batteries, expected to overcome durability and cost barriers, thereby facilitating mass market adoption of ASSBs.

In Depth

Key Findings

Nissan Motor, in collaboration with Oxford University and battery materials manufacturer Gelion, has launched the UK government-funded research project titled ‘Cost-effective, Resilient Solid-state Li–S (CoRe-SoLiS).’ This international partnership aims to develop sulfur-based all-solid-state lithium batteries that achieve high charging power, superior energy density, and extended cycle life.

Technical & Clinical Details

• The CoRe-SoLiS project focuses on integrating Gelion Technologies’ proprietary Nano-Encapsulated Sulfur (NES) cathode material into Nissan’s future all-solid-state batteries for electric vehicles (EVs).
• Sulfur-based cathode materials are theoretically capable of higher energy densities than traditional lithium-ion batteries and are attractive due to their abundance and lower cost. The NES material specifically offers high cost-effectiveness and ease of procurement, making it a strong contender.
• Through this project, the developed solid-state batteries are expected to address the critical challenges of durability and cost, which are major barriers in current battery technology. Particularly, achieving a stable interface between the solid electrolyte and the sulfur cathode is a key technical hurdle.
• The characteristic of NES material being easily integrated into existing battery production lines is a vital factor in resolving scalability issues for the mass market introduction of all-solid-state batteries.

Background & Context

To further accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles, next-generation battery technologies that surpass the performance of current lithium-ion batteries are indispensable. While all-solid-state batteries promise significant advancements in safety, energy density, and charging speed, their high cost and complex manufacturing processes have been impediments to commercialization. Sulfur-based all-solid-state batteries are gaining attention as a promising alternative due to their resource sustainability and cost advantages, potentially reducing reliance on scarce metals like nickel and cobalt. The UK government’s funding is part of a broader policy to boost investment in clean energy technologies and foster domestic innovation.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

The CoRe-SoLiS project, spearheaded by Nissan, Oxford University, and Gelion, is poised to be a significant driving force for the commercialization of sulfur-based all-solid-state battery technology. The cost-effectiveness of the NES cathode material and its compatibility with existing production lines will be key to introducing all-solid-state batteries into the mass market. If successful, this research will enable Nissan to offer more high-performance and sustainable battery solutions for future EVs, contributing to further extending EV driving ranges and accelerating their widespread adoption. Moreover, this international collaborative research highlights the potential for UK-Japan partnerships to generate new value in the global battery technology race.