Japanese automaker Honda Motor and trading house Mitsubishi Corp have joined forces to explore innovative applications of electric vehicle (EV) batteries. As the global automotive industry increasingly embraces battery-powered EVs, manufacturers grapple with post-battery life environmental concerns.
Pioneering EV Battery Solutions
Honda, not content with merely selling EVs, is committed to proactive energy management, envisioning EV batteries as valuable energy sources. Toshihiro Mibe, Honda’s CEO, emphasized their commitment to this vision.
Exploring Battery Monitoring and Stationary Energy Storage
The companies’ memorandum of understanding outlines their plans to establish a business focusing on monitoring the usage of Honda’s mini-EV model battery. They intend to explore the transfer of these automotive batteries to stationary energy storage. This innovative approach aligns with Honda’s plans to initiate sales of the EV model in Japan in 2024.
Collaboration in Smart Charging and Vehicle-to-Grid Tech
Honda and Mitsubishi will also collaborate on “smart charging” systems, designed to optimize the timing of EV charging for efficiency. Furthermore, they are exploring the “Vehicle to Grid” (V2G) system, which involves supplying electricity stored in EVs back to the grid.
This collaborative effort aims to benefit customers by eventually reducing electricity bills and making more efficient use of battery materials.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve in the realm of electric vehicles, partnerships like this one highlight the commitment to harnessing the full potential of EV technology and addressing environmental challenges.