China’s first all-solid-state production line is up and running. With the equipment in place, GAC Group becomes the first automaker ready to mass-produce the “holy grail” of EV batteries, promising to double range and cut charging time.
China advances all-solid-state EV batteries
It’s no secret by now that China is dominating the global battery market. CATL and BYD alone accounted for over 50% of global EV battery usage through September.
To stay ahead, Chinese automakers and tech leaders are advancing new battery technologies, including all-solid-state batteries.
GAC Group announced over the weekend that it has officially begun producing all-solid-state EV batteries, claiming to be the first in the industry to meet the conditions for mass production.
The milestone is significant, given that mass production is one of the biggest hurdles holding all-solid-state batteries from hitting the market.
Not only does it require new equipment, but all-solid-state batteries also use a solid electrolyte, which can be costly. GAC Group uses a dry process that combines slurry preparation, coating, and rolling into a single step, saving time and resources.
The production line is already producing EV batteries above 60 Ah. Experts say 60 Ah is needed to use in vehicles. Up until now, most have been around 20-40 Ah.
According to Qi Hongzhong, GAC’s R&D boss, the company plans to begin small-batch vehicle testing by 2026, with mass production scheduled between 2027 and 2030.
The new batteries are expected to provide over 1,000 km (621 miles) driving range, more than double the current 500 km (310 miles).
China established the All-Solid-State Battery Collaborative Innovation Platform last year, which unites nearly all battery makers and automakers to bring the new battery tech into mass production.
SAIC Motor also announced over the weekend that it has completed the main production line for its all-solid-state batteries. BYD and CATL aim to begin producing all-solid-state batteries by 2027, with mass production closer toward the end of the decade.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
