BYD has confirmed it will begin rolling out solid-state batteries in 2027, with mass production expected by 2030.
The announcement was made at the China All-Solid-State Battery Innovation and Development Summit Forum, where BYD's Lithium Battery company CTO, Sun Huajun, stated the batteries would use sulphide electrolytes.
While the company has yet to disclose specific energy density targets, it has already started pilot production of 20Ah and 60Ah solid-state battery prototypes.
High-end EVs to get first access
The Chinese automaker plans to introduce these next-generation batteries in its mid and high-end electric vehicles (EVs) before expanding availability.
As production costs decrease, BYD expects the technology to trickle down to more affordable models between 2030 and 2032.
In the long run, the company anticipates solid-state batteries will reach price parity with existing lithium-ion technologies, making them a viable mainstream option.
Solid-state battery race heats up
BYD is not alone in the push for solid-state batteries.
Other Chinese manufacturers, such as Chery (makers of Omoda), are making strides in the technology.
Chery claims its current solid-state prototypes boast an energy density of 400Wh/kg, with plans to increase this to 500Wh/kg. The company aims to equip its EVs with these batteries by 2026, potentially delivering a driving range of up to 1500 km on a single charge.
Legacy automakers are also investing heavily in the technology. Toyota, Honda and Mercedes-Benz have been developing solid-state battery solutions, aiming for commercial deployment within the next few years.
The transition to this advanced energy storage system could mark a significant shift in EV performance and efficiency.
LFP batteries still relevant
Despite the advancements in solid-state batteries, BYD does not expect the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) in its Blade batteries to become obsolete anytime soon.
Speaking at the event, BYD's chief scientist and chief automotive engineer, Lian Yubo, projected that LFP batteries will remain a critical component for budget-friendly EVs over the next 15 to 20 years.
As automakers race to refine and commercialise solid-state battery technology, the coming decade could see a major transformation in EV performance, cost, and accessibility.
BYD’s planned rollout signals a crucial step towards making solid-state batteries a practical reality for the mainstream market.