The automotive industry is on the verge of a major transformation as multiple manufacturers prepare to introduce solid-state batteries to electric vehicles (EVs). Hyundai, BYD and several other industry leaders have revealed their plans to transition towards this next-generation battery technology, which promises significant improvements in energy density, charging speed, and overall vehicle performance. While large-scale deployment could still a few years away, recent announcements indicate that a pivotal shift is imminent, setting the stage for widespread adoption in the 2030s.
Understanding Solid-State EV Batteries
Solid-state batteries represent a significant advancement over traditional lithium-ion batteries, which rely on liquid electrolytes to transport lithium ions between the anode and cathode. In contrast, solid-state batteries use a solid electrolyte, which improves energy density, enhances safety, and reduces the risk of thermal runaway.
This shift enables EVs to achieve longer ranges, faster charging times, and greater overall efficiency. Additionally, solid-state batteries are expected to extend the lifespan of EVs by reducing degradation over time, making them a highly attractive alternative to conventional lithium-ion power sources.
Last year, Samsung announced that they expect future EVs to be able to pick up 600 miles of range in around 9 minutes.
BYD’s Plans for Solid-State Battery Deployment
BYD, the world’s largest producer of new energy vehicles (NEVs), has been actively developing all-solid-state battery technology since 2013. At a recent forum, Sun Huajun, Chief Technology Officer of BYD’s battery division, outlined the company’s progress and future strategy. According to Sun, BYD aims to begin ‘demonstration use’ of its solid-state batteries by 2027, with large-scale adoption expected post-2030.
BYD’s solid-state battery research initially focused on feasibility studies and material exploration, with small-scale prototype production beginning in 2016. By 2023, the company had progressed to validating the industrial feasibility of the technology. Now, in 2024, BYD has successfully developed trial products featuring single-cell capacities of 20 Ah and 60 Ah. Sun noted that while cost remains a current challenge, economies of scale will eventually bring the expense of solid-state batteries in line with that of conventional liquid ternary batteries.
Like other manufacturers, BYD is pursuing the sulphide-based electrolyte route for its solid-state batteries, which balances cost-effectiveness with process stability. This aligns with research from CATL, which has also been developing sulphide-based solid-state batteries and aims to introduce limited production in 2027. CATL’s chief scientist, Wu Kai, has indicated that solid-state batteries could achieve an energy density of up to 500 Wh/kg—considerably higher than the 350 Wh/kg currently achievable with liquid lithium batteries.
Hyundai’s ‘Dream’ Solid-State Battery Initiative
Hyundai has taken significant strides in solid-state battery development, with plans to unveil its pilot production line next month. This initiative, part of Hyundai’s $9 billion battery investment strategy, aims to position the automaker as a leader in next-generation EV technology. The company’s pilot line, housed within its new research facility in Uiwang, South Korea, is set to begin full-scale operation in March 2024.
The ‘Dream’ battery project encompasses multiple battery chemistries, including lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP), nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) and all-solid-state batteries. The first prototype vehicle featuring Hyundai’s solid-state battery technology is expected to be revealed by late 2025. Mass production is projected to commence around 2030, with the first commercial EVs equipped with solid-state batteries hitting the market shortly thereafter.
Hyundai’s push into solid-state battery production could significantly reduce its reliance on external suppliers like CATL, LG Energy Solution, and SK On. With its E-GMP platform already delivering highly efficient electric models such as the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6, the addition of in-house solid-state batteries could enhance Hyundai’s market position by offering superior range, faster charging, and improved safety compared to conventional lithium-ion-powered EVs.
The Road Ahead for Solid-State Batteries
While manufacturers like BYD, Hyundai, and CATL are making rapid progress, industry experts caution that solid-state batteries still face considerable challenges, particularly in terms of stability and production scalability. Despite these hurdles, growing investment and technological advancements suggest that solid-state batteries could become commercially viable within the next decade.
By 2030, the kind of benefits WhichEV anticipates from solid-state batteries include:-
- Significantly Higher Energy Density: EVs could achieve ranges exceeding 600 miles on a single charge, reducing range anxiety and making electric travel more practical for long-distance journeys
- Faster Charging Times: Charging times could be reduced to under 15 minutes for a full charge, bringing EV refuelling closer to the convenience of petrol stations
- Enhanced Safety: Solid-state batteries reduce the risk of overheating and fires, addressing a key safety concern associated with lithium-ion batteries
- Lower Weight and Improved Efficiency: A higher energy-to-weight ratio could lead to lighter vehicles, improving overall efficiency and performance
- Longer Battery Lifespan: Reduced degradation could extend battery life, increasing resale value and reducing the total cost of ownership. Given how long existing batteries can last, some of these new ideas for solid state batteries could have significant lifespans
With multiple automakers now actively developing solid-state battery technology, the transition to this next-generation power source is no longer a question of ‘if’ but ‘when’.
While large-scale deployment remains a challenge, the industry’s collective momentum suggests that solid-state batteries could become a mainstream reality by the early 2030s, revolutionising the EV landscape and further accelerating the shift away from fossil fuels.
Existing battery technology has already killed the idea of hydrogen powered cars for the masses, the move to solid state will cement electric vehicles as THE future transport solution – leaving the US President standing alone with his cries for ‘More oil'.
That leave one serious question on the horizon: The transition to decentralised solar power and next-generation solid-state batteries, presents a fundamental challenge for governments reliant on fuel duties and vehicle-related taxes.
As more households generate their own electricity and EVs become increasingly efficient, traditional revenue streams—such as fuel duty, road tax, and VAT on petrol—will erode, creating a significant fiscal gap. To address this, governments may need to explore alternative taxation models.
One option is a per-mile road usage charge, ensuring that all vehicles contribute fairly to infrastructure upkeep, regardless of their energy source.
Another approach is a tiered electricity levy, where charging vehicles from the grid incurs a small duty, while home solar use remains incentivised but regulated.
Finally, governments could shift towards increased taxation on vehicle sales and components, such as higher VAT on high-mileage vehicles or a new levy on premium battery capacities.
While politically sensitive, such measures would ensure that essential public services and transport infrastructure remain adequately funded in a post-fuel economy.
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