By Kim Richters


Umicore SA and Idemitsu Kosan Co. said Wednesday that they have agreed to work together on high-performance catholyte materials for solid-state batteries that can be used in electric vehicles.

"Solid-state batteries are the next-generation batteries with performance improvements on several fronts," the companies said in a release, adding that the batteries' higher energy density would increase driving range and enable faster charging in cars.

"The replacement of today's liquid electrolyte with a solid one will enhance the safety and lifespan of batteries, reduce their size, weight and ultimately, cost," they said.

Belgian materials company Umicore is holding its capital markets day today, where it unveiled its 2030 strategic plan and targets for the next years.


Write to Kim Richters at kim.richters@wsj.com


(END) Dow Jones Newswires

06-22-22 1003ET