BYD says solid-state EV battery tech is nearly ready for the open road
BYD says it is in a leading position to commercialize solid-state EV batteries and plans to put the technology in its first car in 2027, starting with higher-end models.
"Talking about solid-state batteries, BYD is in the leading position," Li said, according to the interview. "We're in the leading position for commercialization and technology. So to prove that, next year, we have one model that will be the first one with that technology." The comments align with previously announced plans from Sun Huajun, chief technology officer of BYD battery subsidiary FinDreams. At a battery conference in February 2025, Sun said BYD would offer its first demonstration and installation of solid-state batteries in 2027 before mass production around 2030, CarNewsChina reported.
BYD does not expect solid-state batteries to replace its existing lithium batteries. Chief Scientist Lian Yubo said at the same conference that solid-state batteries would be mainly used in high-end models, "empowering each other with lithium iron phosphate batteries, and used in vehicles of different levels." That approach reflects the current cost barrier: solid-state batteries are expected to appear first in more expensive vehicles, possibly a future version of BYD's Denza Z.
Solid-state batteries differ from lithium-ion batteries by replacing the liquid solution of dissolved lithium salts that moves ions between terminals with solid electrolytes made from oxides, polymers or sulfides. BYD is developing sulfide solid-state batteries. Solid electrolytes can provide higher energy density, making smaller and lighter battery packs possible and allowing a longer range on a single charge. They are also theoretically safer because they are far less prone to catching fire and can operate at extreme temperatures, an area where current lithium-ion batteries struggle.
Other automakers are pursuing the technology. Toyota has committed to offering cars with solid-state batteries by 2027 or 2028; Mercedes-Benz began testing a solid-state EQS model and said it would ship the technology before the end of the decade; and Stellantis began road testing a solid-state Dodge Charger in 2026. Earlier this year, Honda formed a new partnership with QuantumScape to develop solid-state batteries, which it hopes will help it reach carbon neutrality by 2050. The potential of solid-state battery technology is significant, but most car makers are only in the first leg of the race.