The rapid hype surrounding solid-state batteries (SSBs) in China is facing increasing pushback from industry experts and researchers, who caution against portraying the technology as inherently foolproof. Despite significant investment and optimistic projections, fundamental safety challenges remain unresolved, raising concerns about premature commercialization.
The Promise and Peril of Solid-State Technology
Solid-state batteries are designed to replace flammable liquid electrolytes with safer solid materials, potentially offering higher energy density and improved thermal stability. This has fueled strong investor interest, particularly as China prepares to implement stricter battery safety standards in July 2026. These standards require new batteries to withstand rigorous abuse tests without catching fire or exploding within five minutes. However, experts point out that these regulations apply broadly to all battery types, not exclusively SSBs, and do not eliminate underlying lithium-ion risks.
The core issue is that SSBs are still electrochemical systems with energy-dense materials. They are not immune to thermal runaway – the chain reaction leading to overheating and potential fires. Researchers highlight that lithium metal, often used in SSB designs, remains highly reactive and can ignite aluminothermic reactions at extremely high temperatures (up to 2,500 °C) even in discharged batteries.
Persistent Challenges: Dendrites and Material Instability
A major hurdle is the persistence of lithium dendrite formation. While solid electrolytes should theoretically prevent dendrites (metallic structures that cause short circuits) from growing through the battery, real-world materials often have microscopic defects. These gaps allow dendrites to propagate, recreating the safety problems seen in conventional lithium-ion batteries.
Adding to the complexity, many SSB prototypes rely on high-nickel cathodes and silicon-based anodes to boost energy density. These materials, while improving performance, are known for their increased thermal instability, raising further safety concerns.
Automakers Push Ahead Despite Risks
Several Chinese automakers are aggressively pursuing SSB development:
- FAW Group: Plans to integrate SSBs into Hongqi vehicles by 2027.
- GAC Group: Operating an all-solid-state battery pilot facility for vehicle testing.
- Dongfeng Motor: Aims for mass production of 350 Wh/kg batteries by late 2026, targeting 1,000+ km EV ranges.
- SAIC Motor & Chery Automobile: Actively developing prototypes with 2027 integration goals.
These ambitious timelines underscore the need for rigorous safety validation before widespread deployment.
Realistic Expectations: Coexistence, Not Replacement
Chinese analysts warn that overstating SSB safety risks misleading the market. Liquid lithium-ion batteries continue to improve through flame-retardant electrolytes, coatings, and high-temperature designs, making them viable for many applications, including stationary energy storage. The likely future is not full replacement, but coexistence. SSBs may excel in niche areas demanding maximum energy density and safety, while liquid lithium-ion remains competitive in cost-sensitive and mature markets.
Presenting SSBs as a guaranteed solution to battery fires is a distortion of technical reality. Both technologies have their strengths and weaknesses, and a balanced approach is critical for sustainable growth.
The industry is moving forward, but the message from experts is clear: solid-state batteries are not a magic bullet. Thorough testing, realistic expectations, and continued investment in both technologies are essential for safe and effective energy storage.
