South Korean battery giant SK On has tapped American 3D printing battery tech pioneer Sakuu to advance electric vehicle battery manufacturing.
Partnership details
According to the press release, SK On and Sakuu formally inked a joint development agreement (JDA) on Monday.
The partnership primarily aims to industrialize the dry process “Kavian platform,” aligning with both parties’ goals to accelerate next-gen battery tech innovations.
For context, Sakuu developed a revolutionary 3D printing technique that produces fully functional batteries in any size or shape using an eco-friendly dry process without solvents. Moreover, these batteries have built-in channels for better heat management.
Sakuu claims this method can significantly cut battery production costs while also expanding battery life. It can also streamline recycling compared to traditional li-ion batteries.
“We are pleased to announce this strategic partnership with Sakuu. We look forward to working closely with Sakuu to accelerate innovations in the manufacturing processes for EV battery electrodes.”
Dr. Rhee Jang-weon, SK On Chief Technology Officer
Dry printing process to improve efficiency
Sakuu’s major achievements in dry-process battery manufacturing and electrode printing cut the need for solvents, which paved the way for a new production process.
This innovation can apparently improve the cost-efficiency and performance of electric vehicle batteries.
“Together, SK On and Sakuu are ushering in a new era in battery manufacturing technology, advancing safety, sustainability, and innovation in battery technology. With Sakuu’s pioneering technology and SK On’s best-in-class EV battery manufacturing expertise, we’re addressing the core issues facing battery makers today.”
Robert Bagheri, Sakuu founder and CEO
SK On’s expansion push in the US
SK On is reportedly one of the first few companies to partner with Sakuu for the Kavian platform.
SK On currently has two EV battery factories in Commerce, Georgia. It continues to boost its production capacity in the US Southeast by developing more facilities through joint ventures with America’s Ford and South Korea’s Hyundai.
Earlier this week, SK On inked a non-binding memorandum of understanding with ExxonMobil for a multiyear offtake deal of up to 100,000 metric tons of Arkansas lithium.
All that said, SK On and Sakuu’s newly announced alliance will deliver a groundbreaking technology that may soon advance to become the new standard for EV battery production. Such an initiative can aid the South Korean company’s efforts to advance in the global rankings from its current 5th position amid CATL’s dominance.
