Foxconn introduces its MIH open platform for EVs and plans for a solid-state battery launch by 2024

A year ago, we reported that Foxconn - the manufacturer of Apple's iPhones - plans to enter the EV market with a focus on software-hardware integration in vehicles. Foxconn seems to be all-ready with its plan as it has introduced its own software and hardware open platform for electric vehicles called MIH. By allowing developers access to key technologies and tools for developing EVs on MIH, Foxconn reduces the entry barriers to the industry, encouraging more companies to be involved in the development of EVs which will result in exponential growth for the industry.

Leveraging the MIH platform, automobile manufacturers will be able to develop EVs for different models including Sedans and SUVs, among others. Foxconn aims to position MIH as the "android system of the EV industry" and together with industry partners will work towards the goal of creating a "software-defined" open ecosystem for the EV manufacturing industry.

Commenting on the hardware part of the MIH platform, Zuo Zisheng, vice chairman of Foxconn, said that the MIH hardware platform focuses on four major features: "Industrialization", "Lightweight integrated molding", "Powerful EEA architecture" and "Self-driving platform", together with the software platform, they constitute the MIH EV open platform. He further declared: "All the development results of the MIH software and hardware platform, including specifications, parameters, software, etc., will be open to partners! Automakers can develop the required models with the least cost and the shortest time on the basis of MIH."

In addition to launching MIH, Foxconn also showcased its technology and development of key EV components and parts. The company has come up with six power battery black technologies, including "Package Technology", "Cloud AI Battery Management System", "High Energy Density Battery", "New Process Without Precious Metals" and "Solid State Battery Research and Development". In this context, it has announced plans to debut a commercialized solid-state battery by 2024 that will offer high performance and safety at a low cost. Moreover, after years of research, Foxconn has developed a unique high-intensity die-casting material that is strong, highly moldable, and resistant to corrosion, allowing Foxcon's lightweight and modularised open chassis power platform to be a competitive option in the market.