Chinese automaker SAIC Motor is making significant strides in the development of solid-state batteries, which are considered the next major advancement in electric vehicle (EV) technology. Solid-state batteries are lighter, safer, and more energy-dense than traditional lithium-ion batteries, making them highly desirable for EVs. While companies like Toyota have been working on solid-state battery technology for years, SAIC Motor claims it is on track to mass-produce these batteries as early as 2026.
SAIC Motor recently announced at an energy technology conference that it will begin delivering solid-state batteries to its car brands starting next year. The rollout will initially include “semi-solid-state” batteries, which still use some liquid electrolyte, followed by “all-solid-state” batteries. SAIC’s brands, such as MG, Baojun, and Wuling, will start incorporating the semi-solid-state batteries into their hybrid and electric vehicles in 2025, with the true solid-state batteries arriving in 2026.
This timeline aligns with projections made by SAIC in 2021, indicating that the technology is progressing as expected. If SAIC Motor successfully achieves mass production of solid-state batteries by 2026, it would put them years ahead of legacy automakers like Toyota and Nissan in terms of EV battery technology.
Toyota has been a prominent advocate for solid-state batteries and has been testing a solid-state EV prototype on the road for several years. However, they do not anticipate significant battery production until 2030, with an estimated annual output of only 10,000 EVs worth of batteries. On the other hand, Nissan aims to surpass that production volume by 2028 but faces the challenge of rebuilding its EV leadership after lagging behind in the market.
The development of solid-state battery technology in China could potentially give a competitive edge to the Chinese car industry, which has been expanding rapidly. This advancement may cause concern among Western nations, as China’s car industry continues to grow. However, it is important to note that the realistic timelines of SAIC Motor, Toyota, and Nissan are still uncertain. Solid-state batteries have been the subject of numerous claimed breakthroughs that have yet to translate into commercial viability.
Even if solid-state batteries become commercially viable, there are still hurdles to overcome in terms of consumer adoption. Cultural factors and consumer resistance may impact the widespread acceptance of EVs powered by solid-state batteries. Nonetheless, the progress made by SAIC Motor and other companies in the development of solid-state batteries is a significant step forward for the EV industry.
In conclusion, SAIC Motor’s announcement regarding the mass production of solid-state batteries by 2026 is a promising development for the Chinese auto industry. While Toyota and Nissan have been actively working on solid-state battery technology, they are not expected to achieve significant production until later years. The successful implementation of solid-state batteries will not only enhance the performance and range of EVs but also contribute to the global transition towards sustainable transportation.
