Maruti, Toyota EVs to use BYD 'Blade' batteries

BYD has developed the Blade batteries in partnership with Toyota.

Maruti Suzuki and Toyota are developing an all-new mid-size electric SUV for the Indian market. Reports suggest that the new model will be based on a bespoke EV architecture and will be powered by BYD's 'Blade' batteries.

The 'Blade' batteries developed by China-based BYD are said to be safer than conventional lithium-ion batteries and have a higher energy density (160 Wh/kg). These Lithium Ferrous Phosphate (LFP) batteries consist of long cells measuring 96 cm in length, 9 cm in height and having a thickness of 1.35 cm.

The Blade batteries also have a cost advantage over Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) batteries used by Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen and Ford. The latter has an energy density of 200-250 Wh/kg but are more expensive.

BYD has developed the Blade batteries in partnership with Toyota. They are produced in Chongqing, China.

Source: Autocar India