Next-Generation Batteries
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About
A wide variety of batteries are now powering innumerable devices across the world, such as electronic devices and automobiles. The continued evolution of batteries will greatly contribute to products that have lower prices, longer life, and are smaller and lighter.
SoftBank’s Research Institute of Advanced Technology is researching and developing batteries with high weight-energy density (batteries with the same weight but higher capacity). This type of battery is needed for electric aircraft such as HAPS (High Altitude Platform Station), a stratospheric communication platform, and can be applied to all kinds of flying devices, such as small cargo drones and drone taxis that carry people. However, developing next-generation batteries requires a new unique approach that differs from the one adopted in designing electric vehicle batteries, which is why there has been little progress in development activities around the world .
Therefore, in 2021, we established the "SoftBank Next-Generation Battery Lab." and are accelerating our research and development activities toward the early commercialization of the next-generation of batteries. This laboratory is a place to evaluate and verify next-generation batteries from around the world, and aims to take leadership in developing next-generation batteries.
Vision
Contribute to the resolution of various social issues through the development of next-generation batteries
Next-generation batteries have the potential to revolutionize a wide range of industries. The use of these batteries will greatly extend the range and performance of drones and electric vehicles, making much more attractive service possible. Furthermore, we can expect them to trigger cost reductions in the airframes and vehicle bodies. It will also contribute to the spread of new technologies such as HAPS and flying cars. These new services are expected to resolve various social issues, such as eliminating the information gap and transporting patients in emergencies.