Insights from Samkit Shah on Solid-State Battery Production and Supply Chain Sustainability

Electric vehicle manufacturers are adopting a range of sustainability practices, not only in the vehicles themselves but across their entire supply chains, manufacturing processes, and business models. A major component of EV sustainability revolves around the sourcing of materials used in batteries, such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite. Leading EV manufacturers are focusing on ensuring that these materials are sourced responsibly, says Samkit Shah, Co- Founder, Jitendra EV in an interview with Anurima Mondal, Editor of EVolution Auto India.

Q: How do manufacturers plan to scale up solid-state battery production to meet future demand?

Samkit Shah: The Indian government has launched various initiatives like the PLI scheme for advanced chemistry cell (ACC) battery manufacturing, which is expected to help manufacturers scale up battery production, including solid-state batteries. The government’s focus on self-reliance in key technology sectors is encouraging domestic manufacturers to invest in solid-state battery technology and reduce dependency on imports. Many Indian companies are forming joint ventures and collaborations with international battery manufacturers or technology providers to gain access to solid-state battery know-how and advanced manufacturing processes. Indian manufacturers are collaborating with academic institutions and research organizations to build indigenous expertise in solid-state battery technology, which can reduce costs and improve performance in the long run. Several Indian manufacturers are investing in R&D to develop solid-state batteries that can be produced at scale. By focusing on technological advancements, these companies aim to reduce costs, enhance energy density, and improve the safety and lifespan of solid-state batteries. Companies are setting up specialized manufacturing units for the production of next-generation batteries & planning to establish large-scale battery manufacturing facilities as part of its efforts to integrate sustainable energy solutions.

Q: What are the projected impacts of advancements in solid-state battery technology on the overall cost range, charging times, and accessibility of EVs for consumers?

Samkit Shah: Solid-state batteries promise to be more energy-dense and use cheaper or more abundant materials than current lithium-ion batteries. The reduction in the overall weight of batteries combined with higher energy density could lower manufacturing costs in the long term. This could result in a decrease in the total cost of EVs, making them more affordable for consumers. As the technology matures and production scales up, the cost of solid-state batteries is expected to decline. Though initial production might be more expensive, widespread adoption could bring unit costs down to competitive levels, especially for mass-market vehicles. The increased lifespan and higher efficiency of solid-state batteries could also lead to lower total cost of ownership for consumers, since battery replacement (which is a significant part of the EV lifecycle cost) might be needed less frequently. One of the most anticipated advantages of solid-state batteries is their potential for much faster charging. Solid-state batteries can theoretically support higher charging currents due to their higher energy density and more stable internal structure compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. This could lead to charging times reduced to a matter of minutes, similar to filling up a gas tank, rather than the hours it takes today for current EVs using lithium-ion batteries. With reduced production costs and more attractive pricing, solid-state battery technology could help accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles, especially for price-sensitive consumers. The combination of cheaper EVs, improved driving range, and quicker charging could make EVs more accessible to a larger segment of the population.

Q:  How is the expansion of fast-charging stations expected to influence consumer adoption of EVs?

Samkit Shah: The expansion of fast-charging stations is expected to significantly influence the adoption of electric vehicles by improving convenience, reducing range anxiety, and making EV ownership more practical and accessible to a wider range of consumers. As fast-charging networks grow, they will likely help accelerate EV adoption, increase consumer confidence, and make electric vehicles more attractive as a mainstream option, supporting the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable transportation system.

Q: What are some examples of best sustainability practices that leading EV manufacturers are adopting?

Samkit Shah: Leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are adopting a range of sustainability practices, not only in the vehicles themselves but across their entire supply chains, manufacturing processes, and business models. For example; A major component of EV sustainability revolves around the sourcing of materials used in batteries, such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite. Leading EV manufacturers are focusing on ensuring that these materials are sourced responsibly, with a growing emphasis on transparency and traceability in the supply chain.EV manufacturers are increasingly investing in energy-efficient production processes, incorporating renewable energy into their manufacturing facilities, and reducing overall emissions from production. Many automakers are setting ambitious goals to achieve carbon-neutral production and end-to-end emissions reductions.Many Manufacturers putting its efforts in battery recycling and second-life applications for its EV batteries.

 Q: What ethical and regulatory challenges must be addressed before autonomous EVs can be widely deployed in India?

Samkit Shah: Before autonomous electric vehicles can be widely deployed in India, a comprehensive regulatory framework must be developed that addresses ethical considerations, public safety, and technological infrastructure. This includes creating clear rules on liability, data privacy, safety testing, and insurance, while also taking into account the unique challenges posed by India’s road conditions, infrastructure, and social dynamics. Governments, manufacturers, and other stakeholders will need to collaborate closely to ensure that autonomous EVs are deployed in a way that benefits society while minimizing risks.