Solid-state batteries — long considered the "holy grail" of EV technology — are finally making the leap from laboratory to production in 2026. With the potential to deliver twice the energy density of traditional lithium-ion batteries, these next-generation cells promise ranges exceeding 620 miles, charging times under 20 minutes, and significantly improved safety. Multiple automakers are racing to bring the technology to market.
Solid-State Battery Milestones
- FAW semi-solid cell density: 500+ Wh/kg
- Dongfeng target range: 621 miles (Sept 2026)
- Mercedes EQS test drive: 750 miles on one charge
- Stellantis/Factorial charge time: 15% to 90% in 18 min
- China's first solid-state standard: July 2026
China Takes the Lead
China is preparing to introduce its first solid-state EV battery standard in July 2026. The National Automotive Standardization Technical Committee released its initial draft in December 2025, with a comment period concluding February 26, 2026. FAW Group made headlines on February 10 by installing the "industry first" lithium-rich manganese semi-solid-state battery in a production vehicle, achieving cell energy density exceeding 500 Wh/kg and over 1,000 km of driving range.
Western Automakers Push Forward
Stellantis will deploy Factorial Energy's solid-state batteries in a fleet of Dodge Charger Daytona EVs in 2026, featuring charge times from 15% to 90% in just 18 minutes. Mercedes-Benz announced a modified EQS equipped with Factorial's solid-state cells drove 1,205 km (750 miles) on a single charge. Toyota has prototypes achieving 10% to 80% charging in 10 minutes with 620 miles of range, targeting mass production in 2027-2028.
"Solid-state batteries are set to redefine EV performance, safety, and consumer acceptance. The transition from lab to road is happening faster than anyone predicted." — MIT Technology Review, February 2026
The Semi-Solid Bridge
Before true all-solid-state batteries arrive at scale, hybrid "semi-solid-state" technologies using gel electrolytes are emerging as a bridge solution. Many Chinese manufacturers are building semi-solid-state batteries as a stepping stone, combining improved safety and energy density with more established manufacturing processes. Dongfeng Motors plans a new fleet in September 2026 using batteries with 350 Wh/kg energy density capable of 621-mile ranges.
Market Impact and Outlook
Li-ion battery prices are almost guaranteed to drop further in 2026, making EVs more attractive. EVs now make up over a quarter of new global vehicle sales, up from less than 5% in 2020. In China, over 50% of new vehicle sales were battery electric or plug-in hybrids in 2025. CATL and BYD alone accounted for over 55% of global EV battery usage. Meanwhile, sodium-ion batteries are also making inroads, promising better low-temperature performance and lower costs as complementary technology.
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