- New battery achieves 600 Wh/kg energy density, doubling today’s top cells.
- Chery says the chemistry prevents fires and still works even when submerged.
- Other Chinese brands, like BYD, are racing to develop solid-state tech.
Chery is the latest automaker to join the solid-state battery race, unveiling a prototype pack that could push an EV’s real-world range to 1,300 km (808 miles). We won’t have to wait long to see the technology in action, as pilot production is set for next year, followed by a full rollout in 2027.
Developed through the Chery Solid-State Battery Research Institute, the new pack uses an in-situ polymerized solid electrolyte system combined with a lithium-rich manganese cathode.
The company cites an energy density of a remarkable 600 Wh/kg, which is roughly double what the highest-end non-solid-state cells from China can deliver.
The solid-state pack from Chery is also said to be much safer than more traditional batteries, continuing to function normally even after being penetrated by nails and a drill.
The chemistry removes the risk of thermal runaway entirely, meaning the pack can even be submerged in water and continue to function.
Chery did not provide any indication as to how quickly its state-of-the-art battery will be able to charge, but it should be faster than traditional LFP and NMC packs that are most commonly used in current EV models.
Record Sales
Details of the new battery were shared during a summit where Chery also revealed that it had sold more than 2 million cars, with European sales more than doubling to 145,000 units.
The Chery Group also retained its position as the top-selling Chinese brand overseas for the 22nd year in a row.
Chief rival BYD is also working hard on its own solid-state batteries. Earlier this year, it announced its solid-state packs will be ready for its mid- and high-end EVs in 2027, before they are introduced to more affordable models between 2030 and 2032.
BYD has provided few technical specifications about its cells, but it’ll no doubt be keen to match Chery.
