Hyundai and Kia Innovate to Slash LFP Battery Costs and Reduce Dependence on Chinese Suppliers

Hyundai and Kia have initiated a program aimed at creating more cost-effective cathode components for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which may also lessen their dependency on Chinese battery manufacturers.

Hyundai and Kia have announced their objective to create an innovative method for manufacturing LFP cathode substances, as stated in a recent news release. This novel approach, known as "direct synthesis," intends to bypass the conventional step of incorporating lithium into "precursor materials" such as phosphate and iron sulfate. Instead, the technique will directly blend iron powder with phosphate and lithium, the automakers detailed.

By removing this phase in the production sequence, automakers assert that it will decrease expenses and lessen the release of dangerous chemicals, ultimately diminishing the ecological footprint of creating batteries. Additionally, this initiative is taking root in South Korea, with local firms establishing the groundwork for an increased production of LFP battery cells within the nation.

The Electric Version of the Hyundai Kona Scheduled

Almost a year has passed since Hyundai revealed a partnership spanning over two years, focusing on creating LFP batteries within South Korea. The goal of this collaboration is to reduce reliance on Chinese providers for these batteries by producing cost-effective LFP cells that do not involve China.

The technology behind lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries was initially developed in the United States. However, American firms eventually dropped it due to the absence of immediate financial returns. Over the last twenty years, this technology has been perfected by various companies in China. Presently, this battery type is utilized in Tesla's standard Model 3 and Ford's Mustang Mach-E. Yet, these particular models do not meet the criteria for electric vehicle tax incentives due to the Chinese components they contain.

Approximately 20% of global electric vehicle batteries are of the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) variety. These batteries have the advantage of requiring less nickel and cobalt. Additionally, they offer increased safety due to their lower risk of overheating and less susceptibility to heat-induced damage. The bulk of LFP production capabilities are concentrated in the hands of Chinese companies BYD and CATL. However, companies like Ford are looking to produce their own LFP batteries domestically, such as at a Michigan-based plant utilizing Chinese manufacturing techniques.

The 2023 version of the Kia Niro

General Motors has announced that the upcoming version of the Chevrolet Bolt EV, set to be released in 2025 for the 2026 model year, will incorporate LFP battery cells. These could play a crucial role in ensuring the Bolt EV fulfills GM's commitment to being their most cost-effective electric vehicle.

In the meantime, China is making strides in enhancing the LFP battery variant. Last year, GAC, a Chinese company, unveiled LFP batteries with an increased energy density of 20%, while CATL, another Chinese firm, asserts its latest LFP batteries can achieve an additional 250 miles of driving distance with just 10 minutes of charging.

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