MG4 Becomes First EV with Semi-Solid-State Battery Approved for Sale in China

A solid-state battery is an advanced energy storage technology that replaces the liquid or gel electrolyte in traditional lithium-ion batteries with a solid electrolyte. This design promises higher energy density, faster charging, and improved safety for electric vehicles.

Compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries:

• Use solid electrolytes instead of flammable liquid electrolytes.
  
• Offer higher energy density (more range in smaller size).
  
• Support faster charging while reducing overheating risks.
  
• Have the potential for longer cycle life and durability.

Key benefits include:

• Extended driving range (potentially over 500–700 miles per charge).
  
• Enhanced safety due to reduced fire risks.
  
• Faster charging speeds compared to current lithium-ion packs.
  
• Longer lifespan, lowering total EV ownership costs.

Despite their promise, solid-state batteries face hurdles such as:

• High manufacturing costs compared to lithium-ion.
  
• Scaling difficulties for large EV battery packs.
  
• Durability issues with solid electrolytes under real-world conditions.
  
• Need for new supply chains and production infrastructure.

Several companies are investing heavily in solid-state EV technology, including:

• Toyota (planning limited solid-state EVs by 2027).
  
• BMW (working with Solid Power).
  
• Volkswagen Group (via QuantumScape partnership).
  
• Nissan (aiming for commercial use by 2028).
  
• Startups like Factorial Energy, ProLogium, and SES are also key players.

Industry forecasts suggest commercial solid-state EVs may debut around 2027–2030. Toyota and Nissan are leading with pilot projects, while startups like QuantumScape aim to deliver solid-state cells to automakers before 2030.

Solid-state batteries are expected to provide 50%–100% more energy density than lithium-ion packs. This could extend EV ranges from today’s 250–350 miles to 500–700 miles per charge, depending on vehicle design and efficiency.

Yes. Because they use non-flammable solid electrolytes, solid-state batteries greatly reduce risks of thermal runaway, fires, and explosions. This safety improvement is one of the biggest reasons automakers are pursuing solid-state technology.

Solid-state batteries could enable 10–15 minute ultra-fast charging while reducing heat buildup. This is significantly faster than most current lithium-ion EVs, which typically require 30–60 minutes at DC fast chargers to reach 80% capacity.

The future of solid-state batteries looks promising but will likely follow a gradual adoption curve:

• 2025–2027: Pilot programs and premium/luxury EV models.
  
• 2028–2030: Wider adoption in mainstream EVs.
  
• Beyond 2030: Potential to replace lithium-ion as the dominant EV battery technology, unlocking higher range, lower costs, and safer energy storage.