Aside from the improved energy density, solid-state batteries also perform better in low temperatures. Xiaomi claims about 20% improved efficiency at -20°C. In addition, solid-state cells are safer as they don’t explode when punctured due to the lack of liquid electrolytes.
The engineers at Xiaomi have further improved durability by coating the positive electrode with solid electrolyte ceramics. This not only enhances the battery’s overall durability but also makes it more resistant to overheating.
The new technology promises to solve many issues with modern lithium batteries. This breakthrough could lead to the development of EVs that can travel longer distances on a single charge, reducing the need for frequent charging stations. Moreover, solid-state batteries could lead to the creation of thinner and lighter batteries that can be used in a wider range of devices.
Xiaomi tested its prototype on a Xiaomi 13 smartphone and was able to cram up a 6,000 mAh unit inside the small handset. However, as is usually the case with cutting-edge tech, the real challenge is producing those batteries at scale and making them economically viable. Xiaomi still has a long way to go, but if it keeps the current pace, we may very well see a Xiaomi-made EV powered by a solid-state battery in the coming years.
Solid-state batteries have been a topic of research for many years, but they have only recently started to gain traction in the EV industry. Automakers, such as Toyota and Volkswagen, have invested heavily in the technology, but Xiaomi’s breakthrough in energy density could be a game-changer for the industry. With a higher energy density, EVs can travel further on a single charge, which could lead to an increase in their adoption rate.
In addition, solid-state batteries have the potential to be cheaper to produce than traditional lithium-ion batteries. This could make EVs more affordable for the masses, which is crucial for their widespread adoption. Moreover, solid-state batteries have a longer lifespan than traditional lithium-ion batteries, which means that they will need to be replaced less frequently, reducing the overall cost of ownership.
See also: Xiaomi Unveils Digital Car Key Feature in Collaboration with Google and BMW at MWC 2023
Xiaomi’s breakthrough in solid-state battery technology is a significant step forward for the EV industry. With a higher energy density, better performance in low temperatures, and increased safety, solid-state batteries could revolutionize the way we power our devices, from smartphones to electric vehicles. While Xiaomi still has a long way to go before it can produce these batteries at scale, the future looks bright for solid-state batteries, and we can expect to see more breakthroughs in this field in the coming years.
