Chinese automaker Chery has unveiled an advanced solid-state battery with a projected real-world range of 1,300 kilometers (808 miles), potentially setting a new benchmark for electric vehicle performance and safety.
The battery boasts an energy density of 600 Wh/kg, the highest announced by a Chinese automotive manufacturer to date. This innovation could more than double the range offered by many electric vehicles currently on the market.
Chery plans to commence pilot operations for vehicles equipped with this new battery in 2026, targeting a commercial launch in 2027. This timeline positions the company ahead of domestic rivals like BYD and CATL, who are also aiming for small-scale solid-state battery production around 2027.
Beyond its impressive range, the new battery has demonstrated enhanced safety features. It successfully passed extreme abuse tests, including nail penetration and drilling, without igniting or producing smoke. This addresses a critical safety concern associated with current battery technologies.
The announcement was made at the Chery Global Innovation Conference 2025 in Wuhu on October 18. Chery’s Solid-State Battery Research Institute developed the prototype, utilizing an in-situ polymerized solid electrolyte system and a lithium-manganese-rich cathode.
This strategic move aligns with China’s broader push towards advanced electrification. Chery reported significant growth, with September exports rising 26.2% year-on-year to 137,624 vehicles. The company’s revenue for the first half of 2025 reached approximately $19.5 billion USD.
Chery has earmarked a substantial portion of its recent Hong Kong initial public offering capital for research and development. Thirty-five percent is allocated to vehicle R&D and 25% to next-generation technologies like solid-state batteries.
Globally, other automakers are also pursuing similar advancements, with Toyota, for example, partnering with Sumitomo Metal Mining to accelerate cathode material development for its own solid-state cells.
Despite the promising performance, the high cost of solid-state battery technology remains a significant challenge. Current production costs are estimated to be about 2.8 times higher than conventional liquid-electrolyte batteries, primarily due to complex materials and low production volumes.
The implications of such long-range, safer batteries are far-reaching. They could alleviate range anxiety, reduce the need for extensive charging infrastructure, and accelerate electric vehicle adoption, particularly in regions with limited charging access.
Additionally, enhanced safety reduces fire risks, which is crucial in warm climates or following accidents. For consumers, this technology could translate into more durable vehicles with better long-term performance and lower maintenance costs.
Chery also introduced its new Kunpeng battery brand, which will initially feature three series of batteries. All Kunpeng batteries are designed for 6C charging, capable of adding 400 kilometers (249 miles) of range in just five minutes.