Northvolt, the Swedish battery manufacturer, has unveiled its inaugural sodium-ion product. This breakthrough technology not only reduces dependence on rare raw materials but also sets the stage for Northvolt’s future electric car batteries. Nothvolt boasts a “best-in-class” energy density exceeding 160 watt-hours per kilogram, and notably, it was crafted without utilizing lithium, nickel, cobalt, or graphite.

While the initial sodium-ion cells are primarily tailored for energy storage, subsequent generations hold the potential to achieve even higher energy density, catering to the evolving needs of electric mobility. Northvolt’s sodium-ion technology has improved energy storage with extended duration compared to alternative battery chemistries, all at a reduced cost.

Northvolt’s latest development, which utilities a hard carbon anode and high-sodium Prussian white cathode, is said to be more cost-effective and sustainable compared to conventional Lithium-ion batteries incorporating nickel, manganese, cobalt, or iron phosphate, as highlighted by the company.

As Europe’s sole major homegrown battery manufacturer, the company is scaling up EV battery production in Sweden and eyeing factory construction in Germany and Canada. With over $9 billion raised in equity and debt, it has secured orders exceeding $55 billion from automotive giants like BMW, Volvo, Polestar, and the Volkswagen Group.