Solid-State Batteries Remain in R&D as Industry Eyes the Future

In 2025, as automotive technology enters a new phase of intelligent development, innovations in battery technology are drawing increased attention. One of the most discussed topics at CIBF 2025 (China International Battery Fair) in Shenzhen was the development and commercialization of solid-state batteries, which promise breakthroughs in energy density, safety, and longevity—but still remain largely in the R&D stage.

Solid-State vs. Liquid-State: The Next Leap Forward?

Compared to traditional liquid lithium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries offer significant advantages. According to a recent report by the China EV100 think tank titled “All-Solid-State Batteries May Lead the Next Battery Revolution”, current liquid lithium-ion batteries are approaching their theoretical energy density limit of around 350Wh/kg. In contrast, solid-state batteries are expected to exceed 500Wh/kg, offering a new frontier in electric vehicle (EV) performance.

However, despite their promise, solid-state batteries have yet to achieve mass production. High costs, complex manufacturing requirements, and technical challenges remain major hurdles.

Cost and Technical Challenges Still Loom Large

According to Yang Chenglin, head of the solid-state battery program at BTR Group Research Institute, one of the key obstacles is cost—full solid-state battery cells currently cost up to 5 RMB/Wh. Additionally, the operating pressure required for these batteries reaches megapascal levels, adding significant complexity to system integration.

Still, recent advancements are beginning to shift the tide. Yang notes that prices of critical materials such as lithium sulfide, a core component in solid electrolytes, have dropped significantly. With bulk procurement, the price of lithium sulfide is now around 1000 RMB/kg, offering a glimpse of future feasibility.

Industry Ramps Up Pre-Mass Production Efforts

Several major industry players are accelerating their solid-state battery development:

• Gotion High-Tech recently announced six new battery products, including its quasi-solid-state "G-Yuan" battery capable of 1000 km range. The company claims that its all-solid-state battery is now in pre-mass production.

• BTR has launched an integrated material solution covering cathodes, anodes, and electrolytes for both semi-solid and all-solid-state batteries, claiming it has production-ready technologies.

• Enjie Co., Ltd. has begun construction of its sulfide solid electrolyte pilot production line in Yuxi, which is expected to reach an annual capacity of 1,000 tons upon full completion.

Automakers Begin Deployment—But Mostly Semi-Solid Variants

Several automakers have revealed plans to bring solid-state batteries into vehicles:

• Changan Auto unveiled its “Golden Bell” solid-state battery, claiming 400Wh/kg energy density and 1500 km range, to debut in late 2025.

• SAIC Motor will begin mass production of its new-generation solid-state battery in MG4 models by the end of this year.

• GAC Group plans to incorporate solid-state batteries into Hyper series models by 2026.

• BYD targets 2027 for pilot deployment and 2030 for mass adoption of all-solid-state batteries.

However, most of these are semi-solid or quasi-solid batteries, which still contain liquid electrolytes. This distinction is crucial for understanding the real state of the technology.

Industry Warnings Against Overhyping the Technology

At the 2025 China EV100 Forum, Robin Zeng, Founder and Chairman of CATL, criticized what he called “exaggerated claims” by some automakers. He remarked:

“Statements claiming that solid-state batteries will be widely adopted by 2025 are irresponsible. It takes 8 to 10 years for lab samples to reach true mass production.”

According to Zeng, many so-called solid-state batteries are still hybrid versions with liquid components, and differ significantly from true all-solid-state cells.

Outlook: Mainstream Still Dominated by Liquid Batteries Until 2030

Liu Yang, head of solid-state R&D at Enjie Global Research Institute, predicts that even by 2030, over 90% of the EV battery market will still be dominated by liquid batteries. While semi-solid batteries have started to enter vehicles, fully solid-state batteries will initially be used in niche sectors such as aerospace, deep-sea exploration, and high-performance equipment due to their high cost and specialized requirements.

The transition from liquid to solid-state batteries is underway, but it remains a long journey. As materials improve and costs fall, the path toward solid-state battery commercialization will become clearer. For now, liquid lithium-ion and semi-solid technologies remain the mainstream in real-world EV applications.

GBE Battery continues to monitor the evolution of battery technologies, from advanced lithium-ion chemistries to emerging solid-state solutions. While solid-state batteries offer exciting potential, we remain committed to delivering proven, high-quality lithium battery products that meet today’s performance, cost, and reliability standards for EVs, forklifts, energy storage, and more.

For more insights or to explore our lithium battery solutions, feel free to contact us.