New solid-state battery offers over 1,300 mile EV range on a single charge
A Beijing-based solid-state battery developer, has unveiled a prototype cell with potentially revolutionary implications for EV range
Tailan New Energy, a Beijing-based solid-state battery developer, has unveiled a prototype cell with potentially revolutionary implications for electric vehicle (EV) range. The company claims its all-solid-state lithium metal battery offers an industry-leading energy density of 720 Wh/kg, surpassing existing technologies by a significant margin.
Founded in 2018, Tailan New Energy focuses on developing and commercializing next-generation solid-state lithium batteries and related materials. Their expertise and rapid progress have garnered recognition, including awards as a top five energy company in electric mobility and a spot on China's 2023 list of future unicorns.
The excitement surrounding Tailan's latest prototype stems from its record-breaking specifications. The cell boasts a 120 Ah capacity and, crucially, an energy density of 720 Wh/kg.
This is more than double the density of current solid-state batteries used in Chinese EVs, like WeLion's 360 Wh/kg cells powering NIO vehicles with a projected range of over 1,000km (620 miles). If successfully implemented in passenger cars, Tailan's technology has the potential to double the driving range of current EVs.
Tailan attributes this breakthrough to several key innovations:
Ultra-thin and dense composite oxide solid electrolytes: These electrolytes offer improved ionic conductivity compared to traditional solid electrolytes, facilitating efficient movement of charged particles within the battery.
High-capacity advanced positive and negative electrode materials: The positive electrode utilizes a high-gram capacity, lithium-rich manganese-based material, while the negative electrode features an ultra-wide and thin lithium composite for enhanced cycle stability.
Integrated molding process: This proprietary process enables the creation of a 120 Ah solid-state lithium metal cell with exceptional performance.
Another significant achievement is Tailan's claim to have addressed the "solid-solid interface impedance problem" – a major hurdle in solid-state battery development.
They achieve this through a "high-performance oxide composite solid-state electrolyte" and "self-developed interface flexible layer materials."
Related Stories:
These advancements reportedly improve the migration of charged particles within the cell and reduce interface impedance, leading to better overall battery performance and potentially addressing range and safety concerns associated with traditional lithium-ion batteries.
While Tailan hasn't disclosed specific plans for integrating this technology into passenger vehicles, they emphasize that the cells are designed for automotive applications. Large-scale production and cost-effectiveness remain crucial challenges.
However, if these hurdles can be overcome, Tailan's solid-state batteries have the potential to revolutionize the EV landscape by enabling vehicles with significantly extended driving ranges, potentially exceeding 1,300 miles on a single charge.
This development underscores the rapid advancements in solid-state battery technology.
While questions remain regarding mass production and affordability, Tailan's innovation offers a glimpse into the future of electric mobility, potentially leading to EVs that rival or even surpass the range of gasoline-powered vehicles.
For more science news stories check out our New Innovations section at The Brighter Side of News.
Note: Materials provided above by The Brighter Side of News. Content may be edited for style and length.
Like these kind of feel good stories? Get the Brighter Side of News' newsletter.
Joseph Shavit
Science News Writer, Editor-At-Large and Publisher
Joseph Shavit, based in Los Angeles, is a seasoned science journalist, editor and co-founder of The Brighter Side of News, where he transforms complex discoveries into clear, engaging stories for general readers. With experience at major media groups like Times Mirror and Tribune, he writes with both authority and curiosity. His work spans astronomy, physics, quantum mechanics, climate change, artificial intelligence, health, and medicine. Known for linking breakthroughs to real-world markets, he highlights how research transitions into products and industries that shape daily life.