Samsung SDI is jointly developing robot-specific batteries with Hyundai Motor and Kia.
Samsung SDI noted on the 25th that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the joint development of robot-specific batteries with Hyundai Motor and Kia at the Hyundai Motor Group's Uiwang Research Institute.
The key focus of this collaboration is to develop high-performance batteries specifically for robots, optimizing the battery shape for limited spaces while significantly enhancing energy density to increase output and usage time.
Currently, most sectors of the robotics industry lack dedicated batteries, using batteries typically found in power tools and lightweight electric vehicles instead. However, due to the complex and non-standard characteristics of robots, the battery mounting space is limited, and applying smaller cells to meet specifications results in a reduction in output capacity.
Samsung SDI plans to develop high-capacity materials to improve battery energy density and pursue enhanced battery efficiency through design optimization. This is expected to increase battery usage time compared to existing products and also achieve price competitiveness.
The Hyundai Motor and Kia Robotics Lab will be responsible for evaluating the application of the newly developed batteries in robots and enhancing their performance. Utilizing technology accumulated from years of robot development and operation experience, they will assess the maximum charge and discharge performance of the batteries, usage time, and warranty lifespan.
The two companies plan to showcase Hyundai Motor and Kia's service robots, DAL-e and MobED, at the Samsung SDI exhibition hall during 'InterBattery 2025' scheduled for March. They aim to demonstrate the exhibition robots to attendees and industry officials, showcasing the growth potential of the battery market for robots.