by Breakthrough in Battery Technology
Chery has become the latest automaker to join the development of solid-state batteries, unveiling a prototype battery that can provide a real-world electric vehicle range of up to 1300 km. The technology will be seen in action soon – pilot production will begin next year, with full-scale launch planned for 2027.
Scientific Developments
The new battery was developed by Chery’s Solid-State Battery Research Institute and uses a solid electrolyte system with in-situ polymerization combined with a lithium-manganese cathode.
The company announces an impressive energy density of 600 Wh/kg, which is approximately twice that of the most advanced non-solid-state cells produced in China.
Safety and Reliability
The Chery solid-state battery is also significantly safer than traditional batteries – it continues to function normally even after being punctured by nails and a drill.
The chemical composition completely eliminates the risk of thermal runaway, meaning the battery can operate even underwater.
Chery did not provide information on the charging speed of the innovative battery, but it is expected to be higher than that of traditional LFP and NMC batteries, which are most commonly used in modern electric vehicles.
Record Sales
Details about the new battery were presented during a summit where Chery also reported sales of over 2 million vehicles, with sales in Europe more than doubling – to 145 thousand units.
The Chery Group also maintained its position as the best-selling Chinese brand abroad for the 22nd consecutive year.
Market Competition
Main competitor BYD is also actively working on its own solid-state batteries. Earlier this year, the company announced that its solid-state batteries would be ready for mid-range and high-end electric vehicles in 2027, and would then be introduced in more affordable models between 2030 and 2032.
BYD provided few technical specifications for its cells, but undoubtedly aims to compete with Chery.
The technological race among Chinese automakers is gaining momentum, which could accelerate the global automotive industry’s transition to electric vehicles. The increase in battery energy density and safety opens up new opportunities for creating electric vehicles with greater range and improved performance, which could make them even more attractive to consumers. The successes of Chinese companies in this direction also demonstrate their ability to compete with leading global manufacturers in the field of innovative technologies.
