Remarkable Battery Revolution - Automaker Dongfeng to develop and release solid-state batteries by 2026.
Dongfeng, a Chinese automaker, is making waves in the electric vehicle (EV) industry with its development of solid-state batteries (SSBs). These innovative batteries offer a compact size, lighter weight, and longer battery life, making them ideal for smaller applications such as household appliances, tools, micromobility devices (E-scooters, E-bikes, drones), and even larger vehicles like trains, heavy trucks, and construction equipment.
According to Dongfeng, their solid-state batteries could enable a vehicle range of over 1,000 km, a significant leap from current lithium-ion batteries. The high energy density of SSBs is approximately double that of current lithium-ion batteries, at about 400 watt-hours per kilogram.
Dongfeng's solid-state battery technology is notable for combining advantages in energy density, charging time, fire risk, and lifespan. However, specific numerical comparisons with competitors require context. While Dongfeng has not released detailed energy density figures, leading Chinese solid-state battery developers show energy densities ranging from about 300 Wh/kg to 720 Wh/kg. Dongfeng’s emphasis on solid-state batteries aligns with the higher end of this spectrum given industry trends.
Dongfeng highlights "super-fast charging" alongside SSBs, implying a competitive advantage on charging speed. Solid-state batteries typically allow faster charging due to better thermal stability and safety, although precise charging times for Dongfeng’s SSBs are not disclosed.
Solid-state batteries inherently reduce fire risk compared to conventional liquid electrolyte lithium-ion batteries due to solid electrolytes being less flammable. Dongfeng’s approach to SSB technology likely improves safety profiles. Advanced suppression technologies such as high-pressure water mist systems are effective at controlling battery fires in general, further mitigating risks.
SSBs usually deliver longer cycle life due to stable electrode interfaces and reduced degradation mechanisms. Dongfeng’s integration of SSBs probably enhances lifespan, consistent with industry leaders focusing on polymer-oxide composite electrolytes to improve durability.
In conclusion, Dongfeng's SSB technology appears aligned with industry-leading developments, focusing on balanced high energy density, fast charging, reduced fire risk, and enhanced lifespan. However, exact metrics versus competitors remain undisclosed in the available sources. Industry competitors demonstrate a wide range of energy density (180 to 720 Wh/kg) and have made clear advances in safety and durability with solid and semi-solid electrolytes.
SSBs could revolutionize battery technology, enabling electrification of high-power systems while maintaining a solid range. Dongfeng plans to set up a production facility in Europe, possibly in Italy, to minimize EU tariffs and potentially reduce the price of the Nammi Box or other models. This move could make EVs more competitive in areas such as long-distance travel and heavy-duty vehicles, addressing customer hesitations with EVs, mainly due to relatively long charging times and concern about battery degradation over time.
Other manufacturers such as Mercedes, BMW, Toyota, CATL, QuantumScape, and BYD are also working on the development of SSBs. BYD plans to start production of SSBs in 2027 and begin mass production in 2030. A new charging system for Dongfeng's SSBs could enable a range of 450 km in just five minutes, potentially putting pressure on all automakers and battery manufacturers as the technology outperforms today's storage in every way, potentially making models with lithium-ion or lithium-iron-phosphate batteries less competitive.
Sources:
- Tailan New Energy
- Anhui Anwa New Energy
- Qingtao University
- Battery Ventures
- Dongfeng Motor Corporation
- The innovative solid-state batteries developed by Dongfeng could potentially electrify high-power systems, such as cars, trains, and heavy trucks, within the transportation industry, revolutionizing the lifestyle aspects of these vehicles.
- Dongfeng's solid-state battery technology not only delivers a longer cycle life but also addresses safety concerns, as the solid electrolytes are less flammable than liquid electrolyte lithium-ion batteries, offering enhanced security in the automotive sector.
- Among the competition, Dongfeng's focus on solid-state batteries aligns with industry leaders, with energy densities ranging from approximately 300 to 720 watt-hours per kilogram, but specific comparisons with competitors remain undisclosed.
- By setting up a production facility in Europe, Dongfeng aims to minimize EU tariffs, reduce the price of EVs like the Nammi Box, and addresses customer concerns with EVs, such as relatively long charging times and battery degradation over time, making them more competitive against conventional vehicles in terms of power and performance.
