Revolutionary Solid-State Batteries from BYD Incoming

BYD, the world leader in electrified vehicles, plans to launch a trial version of its solid-state batteries as early as 2027.

This announcement, reported by CnEVPost, was made by Sun Huajun, Director of the Battery Division at BYD, during a forum on this revolutionary technology.

However, large-scale adoption of these batteries is not expected before 2030, Sun clarified, emphasizing that the entire industry is progressing at a similar pace. Solid-state batteries, in development since 2013 at BYD, promise a high energy density, up to 500 Wh/kg, compared to 350 Wh/kg for current LFP batteries. Conversely, their cost remains a major challenge due to low production volumes.

In 2024, BYD produced 153.7 GWh of batteries, representing 17.2% of the global market, behind CATL with 37.9%. CATL, its main competitor, also plans small-scale prototypes by 2027. Both companies’ efforts focus on electrolyte-based paths using sulfides, which strike a balance between cost and stability.

The price is not yet an issue

Since 2023, BYD has validated the industrial feasibility of all-solid batteries, with prototypes reaching capacities of 20 Ah and 60 Ah. According to Sun, cost reduction will come with increased volumes. “It’s pointless to discuss costs while volumes remain low,” he said. With sulfide electrolytes and ternary materials such as nickel and cobalt, BYD aims to align the costs of solid-state batteries with those of conventional batteries in the medium term.

This strategy, backed by over a decade of research, positions BYD among the pioneers of the transition to denser and more sustainable energy. The industry eagerly awaits the technological and economic advances promised by these new batteries, which could redefine the future of electric vehicles.

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