A Desire to Contribute to Society: Transitioning from the Battery Sector
of a Different Industry
Since my student days, I have been involved in battery research. After earning my PhD, I engaged in development aimed at practical applications. In my previous role at a major Japanese electronics manufacturer, I conducted research and development on secondary batteries using a specific material. Because this was a relatively niche area with few global players, most of our achievements were pioneering breakthroughs. While the continuous discovery of new insights was exciting, I gradually became concerned about the unclear applications and goals—wondering whether our work truly contributed to society.
My perspective changed when the company’s management system was restructured, prompting me to consider a career change. I had been interested in ‘all-solid-state batteries’ for some time, and when I learned that Nissan was actively researching this technology, I decided to apply. Although I had no prior experience in the automotive industry, I believed I could leverage my research background and expertise. Unlike my previous environment, Nissan’s development goals are very clear and purpose-driven, which motivated me to join and work towards making a societal impact.
Looking Beyond the Long-Term Vision:
Realizing the Next Generation
of All-Solid-State Batteries
Nissan’s long-term vision, ‘Nissan Ambition 2030,’ sets a goal to introduce EVs equipped with our own developed all-solid-state batteries by fiscal year 2028. My work focuses on the research and development of batteries beyond that horizon, targeting 2028 and beyond. Specifically, I evaluate materials and cells aimed at creating next-generation all-solid-state batteries that combine low cost with high energy density. Currently, I am screening materials in consultation with universities and other material suppliers to identify promising candidates, though selecting and procuring the right materials to achieve our goals remains a significant challenge.
However, Nissan’s experience in bringing EVs to market ahead of competitors is a major advantage. Developing batteries is just one aspect; we also need an integrated approach that considers modules capable of protecting the battery within the vehicle. This is a strength Nissan has cultivated through its comprehensive vehicle development process. We are leveraging these unique capabilities while experimenting and refining our approach.
The Ultimate Form of Batteries:
The Appeal of the Automotive Field
I didn’t initially have a strong personal interest in automobiles. However, as a researcher specializing in batteries, I have always viewed vehicles as the “ultimate form” of battery application—demanding high standards for cost, performance, and safety. Especially safety, which is a level beyond consumer electronics, has become a focus of my studies. I am learning new ways of thinking that I had not encountered before.
Additionally, working at Nissan has increased my interactions with colleagues from other departments. Collaborating with a diverse range of internal and external partners has been stimulating. In my previous role, I handled everything from experiments to cell assembly and evaluation myself, but at Nissan, these tasks are often divided among specialized teams. This shift has allowed me to focus more on “thinking” and strategic aspects. While Japan leads in all-solid-state battery research, Nissan also participates in global research initiatives, which sometimes yield unexpected results—another unique aspect of working here. This international collaboration enriches our development process and broadens our perspective.
Uncovering the True Potential of Future Technologies
in a Field of Unknowns
Research on next-generation all-solid-state batteries is still in the early stages, mainly involving screening candidate materials and testing them in cells. Even if promising materials are found at the lab scale, scaling them up to automotive-sized modules presents unforeseen challenges. I want to maintain a broad perspective and carefully evaluate the true value of these innovations. I believe that bringing together people from various industries with diverse expertise will accelerate the development of all-solid-state batteries. I want to leverage my experience at Nissan to contribute to this collaborative effort.
Looking ahead, I aim to stay ahead of emerging, promising technologies and become an engineer capable of proposing and leading innovations. Recently, I have also developed an interest in the future of automotive-related services. I intend to keep myself updated with the latest information and continuously maintain high motivation for my research, aiming to contribute to Nissan’s future through cutting-edge technology.
