SAIC, one of the leading Chinese automakers, recently made an exciting announcement regarding the mass production of their second-generation solid-state battery (SSB) in 2026. This new battery is set to have an impressive energy density of 400 Wh/kg, placing SAIC in competition with other major companies like Chery, GAC, CATL, BYD, and GWM.
In April 2024, SAIC-backed IM L6 electric car began pre-sales featuring a semi-solid-state Lightyear battery. This battery boasts a 900V high-voltage system and an energy capacity of 130 kWh. Despite initial plans to start deliveries in October 2026, the car has yet to hit the domestic market. IM Motors, the company behind the IM L6, has applied for the sales license for this innovative battery-equipped vehicle.
SAIC is not only delving into semi-solid-state battery technology but also investing in the development of pure SSBs. Teaming up with Chinese solid-state battery startup QingTao Energy Development in 2023, SAIC announced plans for their first-gen SSB with an energy density of 368 Wh/kg and Level 0 thermal runaway. The company has now teased their second-gen SSB, developed in collaboration with QingTao, which is scheduled for mass production in 2026.
The upcoming SAIC second-gen solid-state battery is expected to feature an energy density of 400 Wh/kg, a volume energy density of 820 Wh/L, and an energy capacity of 75 Ah. This battery will come equipped with runaway protection and will retain 90% of its performance at low temperatures, ensuring optimal functionality in various conditions.
Several other major Chinese companies, including Chery and GAC Group, are also gearing up to introduce their SSB solutions to the market in 2026. With solid-state batteries offering benefits such as a longer lifespan of up to 45,000 cycles, increased safety due to non-flammable and non-volatile solid electrolytes, and a reduction in volume and mass, the race to develop and commercialize these advanced batteries is intensifying.
In conclusion, SAIC’s foray into the solid-state battery segment signifies a significant step forward in the realm of electric vehicle technology. With fierce competition from other industry players, the evolution of SSBs holds great promise for the future of sustainable energy storage solutions.
