Photo courtesy of Yonhap News

 

[Alpha Biz= Paul Lee] POSCO Future M has signed an exclusive agreement with a Japanese automaker to jointly develop cathode materials for solid-state batteries, becoming the first Korean materials company to be solely designated by a Japanese carmaker for next-generation battery supply, according to an exclusive report by The Korea Economic Daily.

Under the deal, POSCO Future M will exclusively develop and supply cathode materials for the automaker’s solid-state battery project. The partner is understood to be a mid-sized Japanese car manufacturer.

Early Move in ‘Game-Changer’ Battery Market

Solid-state batteries are widely seen as a future “game changer” in mobility, offering higher energy density, faster charging, and improved safety compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. Their potential applications extend beyond electric vehicles to robotics and energy storage systems (ESS).

However, commercialization remains technically challenging. One major hurdle is “interfacial resistance” between solid electrodes and solid electrolytes, which can significantly degrade performance and lifespan. Overcoming this requires ultra-precise coating technology to prevent direct contact.

POSCO Future M has developed advanced coating capabilities—applying uniform layers at one-ten-thousandth the thickness of a human hair—and has already supplied pilot-scale volumes of solid-state cathode materials. The company plans to move into mass production by the end of this year.

Strategic Shift in Supply Chain Dynamics

The partnership reflects a broader shift in battery supply chains. Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries—where materials suppliers, cell makers, and automakers operate in a three-tier structure—solid-state battery development is still in early stages, with no dominant cell manufacturers.

As a result, automakers are increasingly partnering directly with materials companies to secure technological leadership and stable supply chains.

Through this agreement, POSCO Future M gains early exclusive supply rights, strengthening its position against competitors. The company is also collaborating with U.S. solid-state battery startup Factorial Energy, giving it strategic footholds in both the U.S. and Japanese markets.

Previously, POSCO Future M signed an MOU with Honda to build a cathode materials plant in Ontario, Canada.

Industry experts note that with commercialization expected between 2027 and 2030, the current period represents a critical window to secure leadership in the global solid-state battery supply chain.

 

 

 

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