CompaniesJapan materials maker sees halide as cheaper and easier to handle than other optionsSumitomo Chemical's new halide-based solid electrolyte is said to match the performance of current mainstream materials. (Sumitomo Chemical)EMI OKADAJuly 21, 2026 02:21 JSTTOKYO -- Sumitomo Chemical plans to begin mass production of a new electrolyte material for solid-state batteries that shows promise for electric vehicles, a move expected to lower costs without compromising on performance.