Li-ion batteries might be the quietest big automotive trend creeping up in 2016. Demand for electric cars has steadily increased, culminating in a Li-on battery market expected to reach US$10 billion, up 50 percent from 2014.

The expected increase in production has seen global heavyweights such as Nissan embarking on US$27.67 billion Li-on battery projects, Sumitomo Osaka Cement planning to double the capacity of their plant in Vietnam and Central Glass is enhancing their facilities in a bid to mass produce battery materials in China ahead of schedule.

The stringent safety requirement for Li-on batteries provides an elevated playing field for Japanese firms who have an inherent technological edge.