EcoPro BM recently announced a capital increase of 1.2 trillion won and unveiled its roadmap for developing next-generation battery materials. The company aims to lead all-solid-state battery technology by developing both solid electrolytes and cathode materials simultaneously.
On July 16, EcoPro BM disclosed its full value chain roadmap for all-solid-state batteries during a corporate briefing for general investors held at NH Investment & Securities headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul.
Gong Bo-hyun, Executive Director of R&D at EcoPro BM, stated regarding the solid electrolyte development, "We are currently reviewing pilot production with key clients, and we expect the earliest mass production to begin in 2027. We have completed the design of the production line and are prepared to commence construction immediately based on customer demand."
Gong added, "We are accelerating our efforts to secure independent process technology in the sulfide solid electrolyte sector, which is a key material for all-solid-state batteries, to gain a competitive edge in the domestic market. Since starting development four years ago, we have optimized the process and composition, and we are currently operating a pilot plant with an annual capacity of 40 tons, with products that have passed quality verification from major battery manufacturers."
Notably, EcoPro BM is attracting attention for simultaneously developing cathode materials suitable for solid electrolytes while working on solid electrolyte development. The company is also intensifying its efforts in developing next-generation battery materials, including LMR (cobalt-free manganese-rich) cathodes, sodium-ion battery cathodes, and high-capacity silicon anodes.
This announcement is significant as it represents EcoPro BM's first long-term growth strategy amid market concerns surrounding its recent capital increase. The company faced backlash from shareholders when it announced the 1.2 trillion won capital increase but has stated it will not withdraw the plan and will use the funds for investments to secure future competitiveness.
Of the funds raised, the largest portion, 765 billion won, will be used for equity investment in the BNSI nickel refinery within the International Green Industrial Park (IGIP) in Indonesia, while the remainder will be allocated for operational funds and expansion investments for its Hungarian plant.
Additionally, through this investment, EcoPro BM plans to increase the production capacity of its Indonesian refinery from the initial 66,000 tons per year to 90,000 tons, with commercial operations expected to begin in the second to third quarter of next year. The production capacity of the Hungarian plant is also targeted to expand from the current 54,000 tons to 60,000 tons.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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