Toshiba Introduces New Lithium-ion Battery for EV Applications
12. March 2026Toshiba Corporation has announced the upcoming launch of its innovative SCiB™Nb lithium-ion battery, with sample shipments scheduled to begin in June 2025. The new battery technology is designed to support the electrification of commercial vehicles such as electric buses and trucks, where high operational availability and fast charging capabilities are essential. As rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are electrical products entering the Japanese market, they fall under Japan’s regulatory framework for electrical safety and conformity assessment. Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries usually require PSE certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Japan.
The SCiB™Nb battery introduces a niobium titanium oxide (NTO) anode, making it the first rechargeable lithium-ion battery to incorporate this material. According to Toshiba, the technology achieves a volumetric energy density comparable to conventional lithium-ion batteries using lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathodes, which are commonly used in electric vehicles. At the same time, the battery offers notable advantages in fast charging and longevity. The system can reach approximately 80% charge in around 10 minutes and is designed to support an estimated lifespan of up to 15,000 charge cycles, even under repeated rapid-charging conditions.
Rapid-Charging Technology and Supply Chain Collaboration
The development of the SCiB™Nb battery is the result of collaboration between Toshiba, Brazil-based niobium producer CBMM, and Japan’s Sojitz Corporation. CBMM, one of the world’s largest producers of niobium, supports the supply of raw materials for the battery’s niobium titanium oxide anode. Sojitz, which acts as CBMM’s exclusive agent in Japan, contributes to establishing a stable supply chain and expanding industrial applications for the material.
This partnership aims to accelerate commercialization of the battery, initially focusing on commercial electric vehicles such as buses and trucks that operate on fixed routes and require frequent rapid charging. Demonstration testing has already been conducted using a prototype electric bus equipped with the new battery technology at CBMM’s industrial facility in Araxá, Brazil. These tests form part of broader efforts to validate the performance and operational advantages of the new battery system.
Safety Characteristics and Market Implications
Traditional carbon-based lithium-ion batteries, including many LFP designs, can face safety risks when subjected to frequent rapid charging. Repeated high-rate charging may cause lithium deposition on the anode, which can increase the risk of internal short circuits as the battery ages. The niobium titanium oxide anode used in the SCiB™Nb battery addresses this issue by preventing metallic lithium deposition, allowing the battery to maintain safe operation even under intensive charging cycles.
The initial commercial cell format is a 50Ah laminated cell designed for integration into electric commercial vehicles. In addition to transportation applications, Toshiba expects the battery to be used in maritime systems and stationary energy storage solutions. For manufacturers and importers targeting the Japanese market, compliance with Japan’s electrical safety framework—including the Product Safety Electrical Appliance & Material (PSE) certification—remains an important step for market access when introducing rechargeable lithium-ion battery technologies.
Further regulatory and certification information may be available through official certification resources and regulatory updates related to electrical products in Japan.
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