Electric car battery industry predictions for 2025-2030

The electric car battery industry is on the cusp of transformative changes that promise to redefine the automotive landscape. As we look ahead to 2025-2030, several key trends and predictions emerge, underscoring the dynamic evolution of this critical sector. Whether you are a job seeker or a manufacturer, this article is for you.

Prediction 1: Solid-State Batteries Take Center Stage in 2027-2028 and Enter Mass Production in 20230 and beyond

One of the most anticipated advancements in the electric car battery industry is the widespread adoption of solid-state batteries. Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries use a solid electrolyte, which can significantly enhance energy density, safety, and longevity.

By 2030, we expect solid-state batteries to begin replacing lithium-ion batteries in high-end electric vehicles (EVs), offering faster charging times and greater driving ranges.

Believe or not, the giant names in the electric car battery industry have seriously started the game.

• Volkswagen Group: On July 8th, Volkswagen Group's battery company, PowerCo, and QuantumScape have signed a deal to mass produce QuantumScape's next-generation solid-state lithium-metal battery technology for electric vehicles (EVs). PowerCo under the license can manufacture up to 40 gigawatt-hours (GWh) per year of QuantumScape's technology, with potential to expand to 80 GWh, sufficient for approximately one million vehicles annually.

  This remarks a significant shift from research and development to large-scale production and seriously, it’s not a game, its truly a race among automakers to secure access to the best battery technology for their EVs.

• BMW and Ford: They’ve joined forces with Colorado-based startup Solid Power to integrate this cutting-edge technology into their electric vehicle lineups by 2030. The recent $130 million investment will enable the production of 100 Ah solid-state batteries for testing in 2025, with a full rollout planned by 2030

• Toyota: Toyota has been heavily investing in solid-state battery technology and aims to showcase its first car powered by a solid-state battery by the mid-2020s. They have announced significant advancements and are optimistic about commercial viability within this decade.

Prediction 2: Beyond 2030, there will be a robust circular economy for batteries, where recycling becomes an integral part of the battery lifecycle

Environmental concerns are driving the push for more sustainable battery production and disposal practices. The next decade will see significant advancements in battery recycling technologies, aimed at recovering valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. Companies are investing heavily in creating efficient recycling systems to reduce the environmental impact and dependency on mining raw materials.

Although the recycling segment is relatively small in 2030, it’s projected by Mckinsey to grow significantly in the following decade as more batteries reach their end-of-life.

Prediction 3: EVs become More Affordable

Cost has been a major barrier to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. However, ongoing improvements in battery technology, economies of scale, and advancements in manufacturing processes are expected to drive down costs. By 2025, the cost of lithium-ion batteries is projected by Goldman Sachs Research to fall below $100 per kilowatt-hour, making EVs more competitive with internal combustion engine vehicles. This trend will continue, making electric vehicles increasingly accessible to a broader audience by 2030.

Fierce competition is indeed happening as more manufacturers enter the EV market, like Hyundai, Kia, and Chevrolet. This pushes established brands like Tesla and Nissan to stay competitive on price. Competition also extends to battery technology. As companies develop cheaper and more efficient batteries, overall EV costs will likely decrease.

Competition also extends to battery technology. As companies develop cheaper and more efficient batteries, overall EV costs will decrease.

Prediction 4: By 2030, we might see a more interconnected electric car battery industry with a focus on shared knowledge and resources

The complexity and costs associated with battery development are fostering collaborations and partnerships across the automotive, technology, and energy sectors. Automakers are teaming up with battery manufacturers, research institutions, and tech companies to accelerate innovation. These strategic alliances will be crucial for overcoming technical challenges and bringing new technologies to market faster.

We are already seeing handshakes between industry players. For example:

• GM and LG Chem joint venture for battery production

• Ford and SK Innovation partnership

• Volkswagen's investment in QuantumScape

• Volkswagen's investment in Northvolt

• BMW and Daimler's investments in solid-state battery company Solid Power

By 2030, we might see a more interconnected industry with a focus on shared knowledge and resources.

Prediction 5: Workforce Evolution: New Skills and Opportunities

The electric car battery industry of 2030 will be a far cry from what we see today. With the global lithium-ion battery market projected to grow from $41.1 billion in 2021 to $116.6 billion by 2030 (Bloomberg NEF), it's clear that this industry will be a major source of job creation and innovation.

Forget assembly lines and grease monkeys, the EV battery industry demands a workforce fluent in chemistry, engineering, software, and beyond.

Data Scientists and Software Engineers: Powering the Smart Battery Revolution

By 2030, car batteries won't just be about chemistry—they'll be smart, connected devices. The automotive software market is projected to reach $40.1 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 9.9% from 2020 to 2027 (Allied Market Research). This growth will create opportunities for software engineers specializing in battery management systems and smart grid integration. Tesla already collects and analyzes vast amounts of battery data to improve performance and predict failures. As the industry grows, so will the need for data scientists and software engineers to unlock valuable insights from this data goldmine.

Sustainability Experts Take Center Stage

With the increased focus on environmental impact, sustainability experts will play a vital role. The global EV battery recycling market is projected to grow 61.7% from 2023 to 2030 to (Grandview Research), creating numerous jobs in sustainability and circular economy roles.

The rise of Battery Management System (BMS) Specialists

As EVs become more sophisticated, so do their BMS. The BMS market is expected to reach $22.6 billion by 2027 (Source: MarketsandMarkets), creating a hotbed for specialized engineers adept at designing and refining these complex systems.

The Human Touch: Customer Experience Specialists

As EVs become mainstream, we'll need professionals who can educate consumers about battery technology. The global electric vehicle market is expected to reach 34 million units by 2030 (Deloitte), indicating a significant need for customer experience specialists in this field.

Ready to stay ahead of the trends?

The electric car battery industry is poised for revolutionary changes. As the sector evolves, the demand for specialized talent will surge across various roles. Whether you're a manufacturer seeking top-tier professionals or a job seeker looking to enter this exciting field, Impel Careers is here to help.

As a leading workforce solution partner in electric car battery manufacturing, we bridge the gap between industry needs and skilled talent. Don't let the talent gap hinder your progress in the electric revolution. Contact Impel Careers today to power your success in this dynamic industry.