On October 6, South Korean cathode material manufacturer EcoPro BM announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Samsung SDI to collaborate on all-solid-state battery materials, aiming to commercialize sulfide-based all-solid-state batteries by 2027.

Under the agreement, Samsung SDI will be responsible for battery cell development and the refinement of mass-production technology, while EcoPro BM will lead the research and development of core battery materials. The two companies also plan to expand the scope of their cooperation to include cathode active materials, cathode-use solid electrolytes, and separator-use solid electrolytes.

EcoPro BM is a South Korean manufacturer of lithium-ion battery cathode materials under the EcoPro Group. It specializes in high-nickel ternary cathode materials, supplying major battery makers including Samsung SDI and SK On.

EcoPro BM has already completed a pilot production line for sulfide-based solid electrolytes with an annual capacity of 40 metric tons, while simultaneously developing cathode materials tailored for all-solid-state batteries. During an investor presentation in July, the company revealed that it is currently in discussions with clients regarding sample trial production and has finalized the engineering design for its mass-production line, with full-scale production expected as early as 2027.

Additionally, in August, EcoPro BM’s sulfide-based solid electrolyte project was selected for the South Korean government’s flagship "Super-Eul" (super-supplier) development initiative.

Samsung SDI has also been accelerating its solid-state battery strategy throughout the year. In March, the company showcased sample all-solid-state battery cells at the InterBattery 2026 exhibition in South Korea and outlined its technology roadmap for application sectors such as robotics.

In July, during its Q2 2026 earnings conference call, Samsung SDI reiterated that its commercialization plan remains on track for mass production in the second half of 2027, noting that the first commercial adoption will likely come from the humanoid robotics field.

This joint agreement will strengthen technical synergy between battery cell manufacturing and critical material supply chains. However, the exact timeline for eventual mass production will still depend on factors such as material validation, manufacturing plant construction, and customer market demand.

Source：EnergyTrend