Solid-State Batteries Set to Revolutionize Electric Vehicles: Geely's 2026 Production Plan

The long-awaited arrival of solid-state batteries, a technology poised to transform electric vehicles, is finally on the horizon. These advanced batteries promise improved safety, faster charging, and significantly extended driving ranges. While this innovation has seemed distant for some time, 2026 marks a pivotal moment as we transition from research canteens to real manufacturing.

Much of the excitement centers around developments in China, where automotive companies are rapidly advancing. However, manufacturers in the United States and Europe are also striving to deploy these cutting-edge power sources this year.

Geely Auto is taking significant strides to lead the market, having announced the completion of its first all-solid-state battery pack, set for 2026. This is not merely theoretical; Geely is building these battery packs and plans to test them in actual vehicles this year. This is a milestone for a company that owns notable brands like Volvo and Polestar.

In addition to solid-state technology, Geely is also rolling out a new lithium-manganese-iron-phosphate (LMFP) battery. This enhanced battery chemistry offers 15% more energy, enabling cars to travel further without the need for larger, heavier batteries.

Other Chinese firms are also achieving significant milestones this year. Dongfeng Motor is leading with rapid progress, having started tests on solid-state battery-equipped vehicles under extreme cold conditions on January 14. These tests are vital, as harsh weather usually challenges electric vehicles. Dongfeng aims for mass production by September 2026 and boasts a battery density of 350 Wh/kg, sufficient for a range of 620 miles.

Meanwhile, Svolt Energy is set to finalize its second-generation "semi-solid-state" battery in 2026. This new battery will have an energy capacity of 400 Wh/kg. FAW Group's Hongqi brand has also made strides by unveiling a prototype with solid-state batteries just before the new year, marking its entry into this innovative sector.

In contrast, the United States is opting for a collaborative approach, with tech firms partnering with major car manufacturers. Factorial Energy from Massachusetts is making headlines with its collaboration with Stellantis (the parent company of Jeep and Dodge) and Mercedes to test solid-state batteries in a demonstration fleet expected this year. This step is crucial as it represents the final phase before commercial availability.

Another key player, QuantumScape, is preparing to open its "Eagle Line" pilot production facility this February, which will produce solid-state cells for the Volkswagen Group. While mass production remains one to two years away, the launch of automated production in 2026 signals readiness for real-world application.

Europe is also making strides, focusing on developing necessary factories and supply chains. Blue Solutions, a French company, is a leader in the industry, having produced solid-state batteries for buses that have collectively traveled over 373 million miles.

In 2026, Blue Solutions plans to shift its focus to passenger vehicles by advancing its "Gen 4" battery technology and establishing a pilot line for recycling these innovative batteries, which presents unique challenges compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.

Additionally, Taiwanese company ProLogium aims to cement its presence in Europe, with the construction of a large "gigafactory" in Dunkirk, France, starting in 2026. Although battery production will not commence until 2028, this initiative positions Europe as a future hub for solid-state technology.

Interestingly, industry giants CATL and BYD are adopting a more conservative approach, targeting 2027 for the small-scale integration of solid-state batteries as they await declining costs before full-scale production.

As 2026 approaches, a thrilling competitive landscape is forming, with agile companies like Geely and Dongfeng striving to lead the charge while larger players adopt a wait-and-see strategy. For consumers, this competition bodes well, heralding significant advancements in electric vehicle range and safety far sooner than anticipated.

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