Solid-state batteries have long been hailed as the “dream battery” due to their high energy density and superior safety features. Recent technological advancements and industrial progress have brought these batteries closer to commercial reality. According to TrendForce, nearly 100 companies worldwide are in a race to commercialize solid-state batteries, with a focus on sulfide-based solid electrolytes.
Major automakers such as Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Chery, and Stellantis have already started integrating solid-state batteries into their vehicles for testing. Regions like Japan, South Korea, and China are heavily investing in developing solid-state battery supply chains, with planned global production exceeding 100 GWh. Some facilities are already operational, particularly for semi-solid-state batteries, while all-solid-state batteries are being piloted at the hundreds of MWh level, indicating a push towards large-scale commercialization by 2030.
Asian companies predominantly opt for sulfide-based electrolytes due to their high ionic conductivity and ease of processing. Industry leaders like Toyota, Honda, Samsung SDI, LGES, SK On, CATL, BYD, and Gotion are prioritizing this route. On the other hand, North American and European startups tend to favor polymer- and oxide-based electrolytes due to high patent barriers and cost considerations.
Sulfide-based electrolytes show promise for mainstream adoption, but challenges such as poor air stability and the release of toxic hydrogen sulfide gas during manufacturing need to be addressed. Established companies are investing in multiple technological routes, focusing on the high-performance potential of sulfide-based solutions.
The solid-state battery industry aims to transition from technical feasibility to commercial viability by the end of the decade. China is leading the way in commercializing semi-solid-state batteries with oxide and polymer electrolytes, achieving GWh-level deployment in electric vehicles and energy storage systems with energy densities up to 300–360 Wh/kg.
While all-solid-state batteries have yet to enter mass production due to technological complexity and high manufacturing costs, companies like Toyota, Honda, Samsung SDI, CATL, and BYD are ramping up R&D efforts for pilot-scale production. They aim to introduce all-solid-state batteries with energy densities exceeding 400 Wh/kg by 2027.
Overall, the solid-state battery industry is on the cusp of significant advancements, with various technological routes being explored for commercialization. The integration of solid-state batteries into electric vehicles and energy storage systems holds great promise for a more sustainable and efficient future.
