According to Chinese media, CATL published an update this week on its solid-state battery development in response to investor queries via the state-regulated online communication platform of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (“Hudongyi Platform”). According to the update, test runs with 20 Ah samples are now underway, and the start of pilot production remains planned for 2027.

CATL also shared that the development team working on this project comprises more than 1,000 employees and that the programme aims to achieve an energy density of approximately 500 Wh/kg at the cell level. However, Car News China notes that CATL has not explicitly confirmed this figure as a specification for mass-produced cells, nor “disclosed expected trial output, automotive customers or a vehicle launch date tied to these cells”. The company is still aiming for large-scale production around 2030.

Solid-state batteries are widely regarded as a promising technology for the next generation of energy storage. Their defining feature is the replacement of the liquid or gel-like electrolyte in conventional lithium-ion batteries with a solid electrolyte based on sulphide, polymer, or oxide materials. This is expected to improve fire safety, increase energy density, enable faster charging times, extend service life, and enhance the range of EVs.

Little is yet known about CATL’s specific technology approach. Unconfirmed reports suggest the company is primarily focusing on sulphide-based solid-state batteries. However, CATL has not yet disclosed the intended anode configuration.

In addition to CATL, companies like BYD and Toyota, as well as promising startups such as Factorial or QuantumScape, are advancing the technology. However, in June, CATL CEO Robin Zeng noted that technical and manufacturing challenges mean that the deployment of solid-state batteries in the mass market is still several years away, and he does not expect volume production before 2030. Moreover, Zeng stated that solid-state batteries will likely initially be used only in premium automotive platforms.

CATL also stated in June that its solid-state technology is currently at level four on the nine-point Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale. This classification means that CATL is still engaged in laboratory validation and prototype development for solid-state batteries this summer.
carnewschina.com