Welion New Energy Achieves Major Solid-State Battery Milestone, Eyes 1000 Wh/kg Target

Chinese solid-state battery manufacturer Welion New Energy has announced a big technological achievement, with laboratory tests demonstrating an energy density of 824 watt-hours per kilogramme (Wh/kg), setting a new industry benchmark.

Chairman Yu Huigen revealed this breakthrough during a recent appearance on CCTV's Dialogue programme, expressing confidence that the company will eventually surpass 1000 Wh/kg.

Speaking about the achievement, Yu acknowledged that while the technical capabilities are proven, commercialisation faces challenges. The primary hurdle remains the high cost of raw materials, particularly in sulphide-based electrolyte systems. To address this, the company plans to initially target applications where safety takes precedence over price considerations.

Yu specifically identified humanoid robots as an ideal early adoption sector for this advanced battery technology.

Established in 2016 as a spin-off from the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Physics, Welion's investor roster includes prominent names beyond traditional capital firms like Sequoia and Hillhouse. Technology giants Huawei and Xiaomi, along with automotive companies Geely and Nio, have all invested in the company as well.

In 2023, Welion supplied Nio with 150 kWh semi-solid-state battery packs, enabling the electric vehicle to achieve an impressive 1,044 km range on a single charge, showcasing the technology's real-world potential.

Welion has strategically positioned production facilities across Beijing, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shandong provinces, with current annual production capacity reaching 28.2 GWh. The company has ambitious expansion plans targeting over 100 GWh capacity. Its Shenzhen facility serves as a testing centre for solid-state batteries, with commercial-scale production anticipated around 2027.

Also read: Delhi-NCR Smog Emergency: Cars Stopped, Fuel Denied