WeLion New Energy is developing semi-solid-state batteries that could make electric transport safer and go farther. Unlike conventional lithium-ion cells, which use a flammable liquid electrolyte, semi-solid cells use a mix of liquid and solid materials, reducing fire risk and increasing energy density. That matters in China, where transportation accounts for around 10% of the country's carbon dioxide emissions.
In 2023, WeLion partnered with Shanghai-based EV maker Nio to release a battery pack with an energy density of 360 Wh/kg, giving a range of over 1,000 kilometers. But only about 200 packs were manufactured because of high production costs. In 2025, the company reported a lab prototype reaching 824 Wh/kg, more than three times that of a standard lithium-ion battery today, though it says the result is far from commercialization and has not disclosed details on cycle life or degradation.
WeLion is now pushing into ships and drones. Two inland cargo ships powered by its batteries are expected to launch in October 2026 in Huzhou, with packs carrying nearly 4,000 kWh and a range of up to 250 kilometers. It also plans a drone battery at 410 Wh/kg by the end of this year and its first all-solid-state car battery in 2027 at 400 Wh/kg. The main challenge is scaling up production and competing on cost with cheaper conventional lithium-ion batteries from larger Chinese firms such as CATL.