What’s new: Guangzhou Automobile Group Co. Ltd. (GAC) (601238.SH) has announced plans to install self-developed all-solid-state batteries in vehicles by 2026, joining other carmakers in attempting to commercialize a technology that could revolutionize the electric-vehicle (EV) industry.
Solid-state batteries potentially offer a longer lifespan, increased range and faster charging times. GAC’s version can have an energy density of up to 400 watt-hours per kilogram while meeting safety and reliability requirements under extreme conditions, the state-owned auto giant said in a statement Friday.
The lithium-ion batteries commonly found in EVs today have an energy density of 200 to 300 watt-hours per kilogram. They use liquid electrolytes, which expose them to the risk of catching fire or exploding. By replacing those with solid electrolytes, solid-state batteries can have a lower risk of short circuiting.
But all-solid-state batteries remain a novel and expensive technology. GAC did not say when it will begin mass producing vehicles powered by such batteries.
The background: GAC’s announcement comes after several domestic and foreign peers — including Germany’s Volkswagen AG and Mercedes-Benz Group AG, and Japan’s Toyota Motor Corp. — released timelines regarding solid-state batteries.
Another of China’s largest state-owned car manufacturers, SAIC Motor Corp. Ltd., aims to sell at least 100,000 solid-state battery-powered vehicles in 2025, according to a company statement in May.
Related: Chinese Maker of 1,000 Kilometer Electric Car Battery Plans IPO
Contact reporter Wang Xintong (xintongwang@caixin.com) and editor Jonathan Breen (jonathanbreen@caixin.com)
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