Honda and Asahi Kasei Partner to Produce EV Battery Separators

Battery separators are a critical component in lithium-ion batteries, acting as the barrier between the anode and cathode to prevent short circuits while allowing ions to pass through for efficient energy flow. High-quality separators enhance battery safety and stability and improve performance, durability, and charging speeds. In the growing electric vehicle (EV) market, advancements in separator technology are essential to meet the demand for longer-lasting and more resilient batteries. Addressing this need, Asahi Kasei and Honda have partnered to establish a joint venture in Canada focused on producing top-tier battery separators, combining their strengths to support the future of sustainable transportation.

Building a sustainable EV supply chain in North America

The two companies have entered into a shareholders’ agreement to transform Asahi Kasei’s Canadian subsidiary, E-Materials Canada Corporation, into a joint venture dedicated to producing lithium-ion battery separators. Named the Asahi Kasei Honda Battery Separator Corporation (tentatively), the joint venture aims to enhance North America’s battery manufacturing capabilities, supporting the growth of EVs and contributing to both companies’ sustainability goals. This partnership underscores the importance of creating a reliable supply of high-quality battery components as the automotive industry accelerates its shift toward electrification.

Related:Is the 150-Mile Range 2024 Fiat 500e the Right EV Formula?

Ryu Taniguchi, President & Representative Director of Asahi Kasei Battery Separator Corp., stated, “Our partnership will not only establish stable supply of separators in North America, together we will enhance battery performance and durability to advance the energy transition through electric vehicles, making an important contribution to sustainability.”

Honda will acquire a 25% stake in the new joint venture, investing approximately US$300 million through a third-party allotment of new shares in E-Materials. This investment combines Honda’s expertise in electrification with Asahi Kasei’s advanced material technology, specifically for its Hipore separator, a high-value component essential to lithium-ion batteries. Battery separators are crucial for enhancing battery safety, performance, and durability, and this collaboration will help improve EV battery longevity and efficiency.

According to the announcement, the Asahi Kasei Honda Battery Separator Corporation plans to begin operations in early 2025, pending regulatory approvals. This joint venture will contribute to Honda’s broader vision for carbon neutrality by 2050, creating a robust EV supply chain in North America.This partnership between Asahi Kasei and Honda exemplifies the collaborative spirit driving innovation in sustainable transportation. By focusing on essential battery components like separators, this joint venture addresses key challenges in EV technology, from enhancing battery safety to extending range and lifespan. These companies are not only advancing battery

Related:Ample Gets $25M Boost from Mitsubishi for Battery Swapping Tech