Geely Targets 500 Wh/kg Solid-State Battery for 2027 Pilot
The automotive giant aims for EV ranges exceeding 1,000 km to challenge the long-haul dominance of diesel vehicles.
Geely Holding is developing a next-generation solid-state battery designed to push energy density to 500 Wh/kg. The company is targeting a 2027 pilot rollout across its diverse brand ecosystem to fundamentally extend electric vehicle range.
These new cells target an energy density of up to 500 Wh/kg, roughly double the 250-300 Wh/kg found in current high-nickel NMC cells. Geely claims this technology will enable a driving range of over 1,000 km (621 miles) on a single charge, a figure the company describes as comparable to diesel-powered cars. Beyond range, Geely asserts the batteries will feature a lifespan of up to 1 million km (621,000 miles). To ensure stability, Geely partnered with Dow Chemical to develop a specialized adhesive for the cells capable of operating in extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to 120°C.
The Race for Solid-State
Solid-state batteries (SSBs) are widely regarded as the holy grail of electric mobility because they replace the liquid electrolytes found in traditional lithium-ion batteries with solid materials. This shift typically results in higher energy density, improved safety profiles, and faster charging capabilities. Geely's push enters a highly competitive landscape in China, where other industry titans, including CATL and BYD, are also targeting 2027 for the pilot production of similar high-density cells.
Industry Implications
If Geely successfully commercializes a 500 Wh/kg cell, it could trigger a paradigm shift in EV architecture. Manufacturers would face a strategic choice: either double the range of existing models or significantly reduce the weight and cost of the battery pack while maintaining current range standards. By eliminating range anxiety and matching the endurance of diesel engines, this technology could accelerate the transition to electric power for long-haul transport and heavy-duty use cases that have previously remained reliant on internal combustion.
Roadmap to Deployment
Geely has already begun real-world validation of the cells. The planned 2027 pilot deployment will span the company's extensive brand portfolio, including Zeekr, Lynk & Co, Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, and Smart. While the technical targets are ambitious, the industry will be watching to see if these pilot vehicles can maintain the claimed 1 million km lifespan and 500 Wh/kg density under diverse consumer driving conditions.