Top 10: Solid-State Battery Developers

Solid-state batteries (SSBs) are poised to transform energy storage, particularly in the EV industry. Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries that use liquid or gel electrolytes, SSBs rely on a solid electrolyte, offering significant performance and safety improvements.

Despite the promising benefits, SSBs remain in development. Scaling production and reducing costs are key challenges before introducing it into the EV market.

This week, EV Magazine highlights the top 10 companies advancing SSB technology.

10 | Nissan

• CTO: Kunio Nakaguro
• Founded: 1934

Nissan, the Japanese multinational automaker, is actively advancing solid-state battery technology to enhance its EV line-up.

It has established a prototype production facility in Kanagawa Prefecture, focusing on research from the molecular level to vehicle integration.

Nissan aims to double the energy density of conventional lithium-ion batteries and plans to complete its first solid-state cells in 2025. Mass production is scheduled for 2029, with cost reductions targeting US$75 per kWh in 2028. The advancements promise faster charging, improved performance, and better EV applications.

9 | CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited)

• CTO: Wu Kai
• Founded: 2011

Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL), the world's largest lithium-ion battery manufacturer, is making significant strides in solid-state battery development.

With more than 1,000 researchers dedicated to the technology, CATL has invested in solid-state batteries for nearly a decade. Its advancements include a hybrid "condensed state battery" and cells achieving an impressive 500 Wh/kg energy density.

Prototype production is under way, with small-scale manufacturing targeted for 2027. While challenges remain, CATL continues refining charging speed and cycle life for future commercialisation.

8 | NIO 

• CEO: William Li
• Founding: 2014

NIO, a leading Chinese EV manufacturer, is pioneering solid-state battery integration with its 150 kWh semi-solid-state battery, which was developed in partnership with WeLion. The technology enables a driving range of up to 577 miles and is compatible with existing NIO models, making battery swapping an industry disrupter.

With more than 2,300 battery swap stations, NIO is well-positioned to support the transition to solid-state batteries. Collaborations with CATL and BYD further enhance research, while advanced battery health monitoring ensures long-term durability and efficiency.

7 | Volkswagen Group 

• CTO: Thomas Schmall-von Westerholt
• Founded: 1937

Volkswagen is making significant progress in solid-state battery technology through its long-term partnership with QuantumScape. In July 2024, its battery unit, PowerCo, secured a licensing deal to mass-produce solid-state cells with an initial capacity of 40 GWh annually. The technology, featuring a lithium-metal anode and proprietary ceramic separator, promises 30% more range and ultra-fast charging.

Its unified cell concept ensures seamless integration into future EVs, with mass production expected later this decade as testing and validation continue.

6 | LG Energy Solution 

• CTO: Je-Young Kim
• Founded: 2020

LG Energy Solution is advancing solid-state battery technology through research, strategic partnerships and material innovations. In collaboration with UC San Diego, it developed a long-life all-solid-state battery capable of fast charging at room temperature. Its micro-silicon anode improves durability, achieving more than 500 cycles while maintaining 80% capacity.

Partnerships with Factorial and Kumho Petrochemical enhance material development, while LG focuses on pouch-type solid-state batteries for better efficiency. With commercialisation targeted for 2030, LG is driving next-generation battery advancements.

5 | Samsung 

• CTO: Koh Joo-young
• Founded: 1938

Samsung SDI is making significant progress in solid-state battery technology, targeting an energy density of 900 Wh/L—40% higher than its current prismatic batteries. Its proprietary solid electrolyte and anode-less technologies enhance performance and safety. In 2023, Samsung SDI launched the world's largest pilot production line, 'S-Line,' with mass production set for 2027.

Initially targeting premium EVs, its roadmap includes ultra-fast charging and long-life batteries. These advancements position Samsung SDI as a key player in next-generation EV batteries.

4 | Panasonic 

• CTO: Tatsuo Ogawa
• Founded: 1923

Panasonic is advancing solid-state battery technology through strategic partnerships and targeted research. Collaborating with Toyota via Prime Planet Energy & Solutions, it focuses on sulfide-based solid electrolytes for improved ion transfer. EV production is set for 2027, with industrial applications like drones and factory robots following by 2029.

It enhances energy density and durability while leveraging its lithium-ion expertise for scalable manufacturing. Its phased approach prioritises industrial use before expanding to automotive applications, ensuring a smooth commercialisation pathway.

3 | BYD 

• CTO: Sun Huajun
• Founding: 1995

BYD (Build Your Dreams) is making significant strides in solid-state battery technology, reinforcing its leadership in the EV industry. It is actively researching oxide and sulfide-based solid electrolytes, holding numerous patents and targeting an energy density of up to 500 Wh/kg. 

It plans to produce small batches of solid-state batteries by 2027, initially equipping luxury models before expanding to mass-market EVs. With goals of reaching 120,000 vehicles by 2033, BYD remains focused on overcoming cost and integration challenges for widespread adoption.

2 | Solid Power 

• CTO: Joshua Buettner-Garrett 
• Founding: 2011

Solid Power is a pioneering developer of all-solid-state battery technology, focusing on sulfide-based solid electrolytes for EVs. It has designed a proprietary electrolyte to replace conventional liquid and gel-based systems, enhancing safety and energy density. Solid-state cells incorporate a silicon-based anode, aiming for over 500 miles of EV range and double the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries.

The company has completed pilot production lines and is partnering with BMW, Ford and SK Innovation to accelerate commercialisation. With a cost target of US US$85/kWh, it could be technology for next-generation EVs.

1  | Toyota Motor Corporation

• CTO: Hiroki Nakajima
• Founding: 2008

Toyota is at the forefront of solid-state battery development to transform EV technology. Since establishing its Battery Research Division in 2008, Toyota has made breakthroughs, including a 20% increase in theoretical range. Partnering with Panasonic through Prime Planet Energy & Solutions, the company plans to begin production by 2026, targeting a 1,000 km range and 10-minute fast charging.

With an annual capacity goal of 9 GWh, Toyota is refining its technology for commercialisation by 2027-2028, with mass production expected by 2030, positioning itself as a leader in next-generation EV batteries.

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