1. BMZ is testing prototype sodium-ion cells in various formats, with series production expected to begin around summer 2025.
2. Na-ion technology offers unique opportunities in the battery market and could become a popular choice for applications where energy density is not a top priority.
3. Sodium-ion batteries could provide advantages such as lower production costs, safety benefits, and a decoupling from volatile lithium supply chains, making them an attractive option for energy storage systems.
BMZ is currently testing prototype cells in sodium-ion technology, with plans to begin series production around summer 2025. The CEO believes Na-ion batteries offer unique opportunities and growing market potential, complementing lithium-ion technology rather than directly competing with it. Sodium-ion batteries have the advantage of being cheaper to produce and less prone to safety issues like dendrite formation.
Developers of battery energy storage systems (BESS) project that sodium-ion batteries could become a popular choice in the near future, offering comparable market share to lithium batteries. While newer technologies like Na-ion capture attention, advances in lithium-ion technology should not be overlooked, as they continue to drive progress in stationary storage deployments. Recent breakthroughs in sodium-ion battery technology, such as achieving 160Wh/kg energy density, show promise for stationary energy storage applications.
Despite the potential of sodium-ion batteries, lithium-ion technology remains dominant, especially for longer range electric vehicles and energy storage in limited spaces. BMZ, a pioneer in lithium-ion battery technology, continues to invest in research and development while exploring the potential of new technologies like sodium-ion. The company emphasizes the importance of expertise in recommending the best cell chemistry for different applications, considering factors like energy density and cost.