Zimbabwe is making significant progress in the production of lithium batteries for passenger vehicles. The Harare Institute of Technology (HIT) has successfully purified lithium phosphate and manufactured prototype cells, paving the way for commercial production next year. The country holds substantial reserves of hard-rock lithium, a crucial mineral for clean energy technologies.
HIT Vice Chancellor Dr. Quinton Kanhukamwe stated that the university has developed lithium carbonate and further processed it into lithium phosphate, which possesses improved chemical characteristics for battery production. The university has successfully developed a lithium phosphate 3.2V, 60Ah battery cell, which, when combined in parallel or series, can generate sufficient power to drive passenger vehicles. The vision is to commence commercial production of lithium batteries for vehicles by 2024.
In addition to the advancements in lithium battery production, HIT is witnessing various innovations across different sectors of the economy. The university is collaborating with the Kosygin Russian State University and local sister universities to improve cotton output, aiming to increase income for farmers and drive exports. HIT has also established spin-off companies, such as InstiBio, InstiRad, and InstiQuip, which focus on industrial biotechnology, radiography services, and machine design expertise, respectively.
HIT’s research collaborations have expanded, with partnerships with universities from countries such as China, Russia, the United States, Indonesia, and Belarus. These collaborations aim to enhance the quality of research and innovation outputs. The university is also part of the Russia-Africa University network, securing partnerships and conducting research activities in various fields.
Overall, these developments reflect the progress being made under Education 5.0 and highlight Zimbabwe’s potential to contribute to the production of clean energy technologies and drive industrialization in the country.
Sources:
– Blessing Chidakwa, “Zimbabwe to start lithium battery production”, The Herald – https://www.herald.co.zw/zimbabwe-to-start-lithium-battery-production/
