A significant breakthrough in electric vehicle battery technology—solid-state batteries—may arrive sooner than expected. BYD's chief scientist and engineer, Lian Yubo, predicts that solid-state batteries will become widely available within the next five years.

Lian also mentioned that these advanced batteries will first be introduced in luxury electric vehicles. As the technology evolves, solid-state batteries will gradually be integrated into mid- and low-cost electric vehicles over the next five years.

However, high production costs and complex integration remain challenges. This announcement marks the first time a BYD executive has publicly discussed the new technology, highlighting the company’s ambition to lead the future of the automotive industry.

BYD, one of the world's largest electric vehicle battery manufacturers with a 15.8% market share in the first half of 2024, is now looking to further strengthen its position by developing solid-state technology.

Currently, BYD produces lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which dominate China’s market with nearly 75% market share. Lian emphasized that LFP batteries will continue to play a key role alongside solid-state technology and will not become obsolete within the next 15-20 years.

Editor’s Comment: Solid-state batteries are a type of battery that use solid electrodes and electrolytes, as opposed to the liquid or polymer gel electrolytes used in conventional lithium-ion batteries. They offer higher energy density, faster charging times, and improved safety compared to traditional batteries.