Chinese car manufacturer GAC has revealed plans to introduce solid-state battery technology in its vehicles within the next two years. The company aims to debut this technology in series production vehicles under the Hyper brand from GAC Aion starting in 2026.
GAC claims that its pure solid-state batteries offer an energy density of approximately 400 Wh/kg, enabling electric cars to achieve ranges of over 1,000 kilometers according to Chinese standards. The announcement was made at a recent technology day organized by the manufacturer, as reported by Chinese media.
Developing a solid-state battery is likened to climbing Mount Everest, requiring breakthroughs in materials, design, production, and integration, according to a statement from GAC. The company asserts that the battery has progressed from laboratory testing to mass production.
Initially, the new solid-state batteries will be used in vehicles from the premium Hyper brand, launched in September 2022. The Hyper SSR and Hyper GT models, both based on the company’s 900-volt AEP 3.0 platform, have already been introduced under this brand.
Hyper aims to produce innovative high-end vehicles, leading GAC to collaborate with the China National Space Administration and establish the Hyper Scientific Research Laboratory. The goal is to advance aerodynamics, innovative materials, AI control, and other areas, as outlined during the introduction of the new premium brand in 2022.
Solid-state batteries are a key focus of innovation for the brand, aligning with efforts by other Chinese manufacturers to integrate such batteries into their series models. For instance, IM Motors, the electric car division of SAIC Motor, recently unveiled its new IM L6 electric saloon, with the top version set to be equipped with solid-state batteries. On the supplier side, Talent New Energy showcased a prototype solid-state battery cell with 120 Ah, potentially enabling a range of around 2,000 kilometers.
