Toshiba, Sojitz & CBMM Reveal 10-Minute Charging E-Bus
Toshiba Corporation and Sojitz Corporation of Japan, in collaboration with Brazil's CBMM, the leading producer of niobium, have introduced a groundbreaking electric bus prototype. The E-bus is powered by next-generation lithium-ion batteries featuring niobium titanium oxide (NTO) anodes.
Ultra-fast charging and high energy density
The E-bus, which boasts an ultra-fast charge time of just 10 minutes and high energy density, was presented at an opening ceremony. It has already commenced testing and demonstration operations at CBMM's industrial plant in Araxá, Brazil.
Advantages of NTO
Rogério Ribas, Technical Head of the Battery Program at CBMM, highlighted the advantages of using niobium oxide in the anode of lithium-ion batteries: "Niobium oxide in the anode provides safer and more efficient operation due to its stable voltage and open crystalline structure, facilitating rapid lithium intercalation.”
“It allows for a full recharge in under 10 minutes without damaging the battery, resulting in safer batteries with longer lifespans than traditional ones."
First operation of NTO-powered EV
This prototype marks the first operation of an EV powered by lithium-ion batteries with NTO anodes, setting the stage for battery commercialisation. The three companies plan to leverage their combined technologies and expertise to launch the next-generation lithium-ion battery with NTO anodes globally by Spring 2025.
Strategic role of Sojitz Corporation
Koichi Yamaguchi, Senior Managing Executive Officer and President & CEO for the Americas at Sojitz Corporation expressed confidence in the new battery technology:
"As CBMM's shareholder and sole agent for the Japanese market, Sojitz has built a stable raw material supply system and cultivated applications. This demonstration confirms that the NTO battery offers a new solution for electrifying mobility and other applications. Sojitz will be key in supply chain management and accelerating business development through our global sales networks and industry presence."
Development and testing by Volkswagen Truck & Bus
Developed by Volkswagen Truck & Bus, Brazil, a leader in electric truck production in Latin America, the NTO battery-powered E-bus will undergo further testing at CBMM's industrial plant. It will provide crucial data on battery characteristics and vehicle performance, supporting necessary adjustments for commercialisation.
History of collaboration and plans
The collaboration between Toshiba, Sojitz, and CBMM began with a joint agreement in June 2018 to explore NTO's potential, given its twice the theoretical volume density of traditional graphite-based anodes.
In September 2021, the partnership extended to mass production processes for next-generation batteries, primarily targeting commercial EVs.
By August 2023, the companies had entered a broad joint sales and marketing agreement to build a supply chain and promote sales activities.
In May 2024, a memorandum of understanding strengthened the supply chain and business promotion, with support from the Brazilian and Japanese governments.
Milestone for Toshiba's battery division
Toshihiko Takaoka, Vice President of the Battery Division at Toshiba Corporation, celebrated the milestone:
"Seeing an E-bus equipped with our NTO battery, SCiB™ Nb, is a significant achievement. In partnership with CBMM and Sojitz, Toshiba has successfully developed an NTO battery that recharges quickly and delivers high energy density. We will continue to expand our SCiB™ battery lineup and business."
A significant step forward in clean energy
The unveiling of the ultra-fast charging electric bus prototype represents a significant step forward in clean energy technology. It promises to boost urban transportation with safer, more efficient, and longer-lasting batteries. Toshiba, Sojitz, and CBMM's continued collaboration aims to drive the commercialisation and adoption of this innovative technology, paving the way for a greener future in global mobility.
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