The Chinese company Penghui Energy from Guangzhou has unveiled its first solid-state battery. This new development boasts an energy density of 280 Wh/kg. In comparison, current high-end lithium-ion batteries can reach up to 250 Wh/kg. However, the standout feature of this Chinese battery is its relatively low cost, being only 15% more expensive than the standard batteries used in today's electric vehicles.
The company announced that it has made significant breakthroughs in production methods. Currently, there are three approaches to manufacturing solid-state batteries: polymer, sulphur halide, and oxide. Penghui Energy opted for the latter route and has already overcome all obstacles related to producing oxide solid-state electrolytes.
Oxide electrolytes require high temperatures for the manufacturing process, which makes the ceramic material (also used in batteries) too brittle. As a solution, the manufacturer devised a wet coating process for the electrolyte. This method has not only addressed the temperature issues but also simplified production.
The new process reduces production costs to that of a standard lithium-ion battery. Currently, it is only 15% higher, but Penghui Energy believes it can achieve cost parity within the next 3-5 years through further process optimization and material handling. Optimizations are also expected to increase energy density from the current 280 Wh/kg to 300 Wh/kg, aiming to reach these figures before mass production begins. The current solid-state battery promises a lifespan of 600 recharge cycles and operational temperatures ranging from -20°C to around 85°C.
Penghui Energy plans to initiate a small pilot research program and low-volume production next year, with full-scale production set to start in 2026.
Source: arenaev
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