Boost for EVs: Chinese carmaker Chery to begin testing solid-state batteries next year

Chery Automobile, China's top exporter of cars, will commence testing solid-state batteries in the coming year, aiming to lead the commercialization of a technology poised to boost the worldwide shift to electric vehicles. Yin Tongyue, chairman of the state-owned automaker based in central China's Anhui province, announced a 10 billion yuan ($1.49 billion) investment over two years to develop the new battery technology, with 1,200 engineers dedicated to innovative breakthroughs.

Speaking at the World Power Battery Conference in Yibin, Sichuan province, Yin stated that the solid-state batteries would be tested for safety before installation in vehicles. These batteries boast an energy density of 400 watt-hours per kilogram, double that of current electric vehicle batteries. Solid-state batteries, utilizing a solid electrolyte to transfer ions between electrodes, are considered superior to traditional lithium-ion batteries, offering higher energy density, enhanced safety, and extended driving range.

However, no mass-produced EVs have adopted this technology yet, and only a limited number of cars, such as certain high-end models from Shanghai-based Nio, incorporate semi-solid-state batteries with added liquid for improved performance. While solid-state batteries are less susceptible to overheating or catching fire compared to liquid-based batteries, they still face challenges in reducing production costs for consumer affordability.

Robin Zeng Yuqun, chairman of CATL, the world's leading EV battery manufacturer, has stated that mass production of solid-state batteries is not expected until 2030, with the technology currently at level four out of nine. Yin's contrasting views with Zeng's may attract public attention as more Chinese consumers opt for electric vehicles.