Samsung Electronics Executive Chairman Lee Jae-Yong visited Samsung SDI's pilot production line in Suwon, South Korea, to focus on the production of solid-state EV batteries for future growth. Solid-state batteries are termed ‘dream batteries' which is why the South Korean conglomerate wants to tap into them and boost its future growth to overcome the downturn in the semiconductor and home appliance markets.
During the visit, Lee was accompanied by the battery maker’s CEO, Choi Yoon-ho. The reason why global companies, including Samsung, are venturing towards solid-state batteries is that they can store more energy, charge faster, are more reliable, and have a lower risk of fire as compared to lithium-ion batteries.
Samsung SDI's solid-state pilot production line is expected to be completed by Q1 2023
Moreover, solid-state batteries are emerging as the next-generation battery that has huge potential to replace lithium-ion batteries. Last December, Chairman Lee had a discussion with BMW CEO Oliver Zipse to bolster their partnership in solid-state batteries during the BMW CEO's visit to the BMW Driving Center in Yeongjong Island, Incheon, South Korea,
According to industry sources, the solid-state pilot production site at Samsung SDI is the world’s sixth-largest EV cell manufacturer. Lee emphasized more investment in talent and technology to boost production. This pilot production line at Samsung SDI's Suwon site is known as ‘S-Line' which stands for Solid, Sole, and Samsung SDI.
The S-line is being constructed in an area of 6,500 square meters and is expected to be completed in Q1 2023. This visit by Samsung Chairman to the Samsung SDI site is seen as his inclination and push towards more innovative technology to drive future growth. Prior to this visit, Lee visited Samsung Electronics’ Cheonan-Onyang campus to review Samsung's business strategies in next-gen semiconductor packaging.
