BYD has said it will introduce its first electric vehicle with a solid-state battery in 2027. Stella Li, BYD's executive vice president, told Carwow's Spanish outlet that the company holds a leading position in commercializing the technology. The plan aligns with earlier statements from Sun Huajun, chief technology officer of BYD's battery subsidiary FinDreams, who outlined a 2027 demonstration and installation timeline with mass production around 2030.
Solid-state batteries replace the liquid electrolyte used in lithium-ion cells with a solid material, offering higher energy density, longer range, and improved safety. BYD is developing sulfide-based solid-state batteries. However, cost remains a barrier, so the technology is expected to debut in high-end models, such as a possible future version of the Denza Z, while lithium iron phosphate batteries continue to power other vehicles.
BYD is not alone in pursuing solid-state cells. Toyota has committed to offering them by 2027 or 2028, Mercedes-Benz is testing a solid-state EQS, and Stellantis has begun road testing a Dodge Charger with the technology. Honda also partnered with QuantumScape earlier this year. The source notes that most automakers are still in the early stages of the race.