Semi-Solid-State Batteries to Boost Automaker Profitability: China Advances National Standards, 15 GWh+ Shipments Forecasted by 2026

Gasgoo / Industry Analysis China

Overview

As the industrialization of all-solid-state batteries faces delays, semi-solid-state batteries are gaining renewed attention as a pragmatic solution balancing energy density, cost, and safety. China is actively developing national standards for solid-state batteries, with companies like Qingtao Energy, in partnership with SAIC, developing semi-solid-state batteries demonstrating over 3,000 cycles and improved discharge performance at -20°C. These advancements are projected to drive China’s domestic semi-solid-state battery shipments past 15 GWh in 2026, helping address automakers’ profitability challenges.

In Depth

Key Findings

With the industrialization of full solid-state batteries facing ongoing challenges, semi-solid-state batteries are emerging as a compelling solution to automakers’ profitability challenges, balancing energy density, cost, and safety. China is actively developing national standards for solid-state batteries, and companies like Qingtao Energy, in collaboration with SAIC, have developed semi-solid-state batteries with a lifespan exceeding 3,000 cycles and enhanced discharge performance at -20°C. This technological progress is projected to lead to over 15 GWh of domestic semi-solid-state battery shipments in China by 2026.

Technical / Clinical Details

Semi-solid-state batteries represent an intermediate technology, replacing a portion of the liquid electrolyte with solid materials. This approach offers a dual advantage of higher energy density and improved safety compared to traditional liquid lithium-ion batteries, while presenting fewer manufacturing and technical hurdles than full solid-state solutions. Qingtao Energy’s developed semi-solid-state battery demonstrates robust performance in extreme cold conditions (-20°C) and has proven durability beyond 3,000 cycles. These characteristics directly address critical EV challenges related to low-temperature efficiency and long-term reliability requirements for extended usage periods.

Background & Context

The rapid expansion of the EV market has made battery performance, safety, and cost crucial competitive factors for automakers. While full solid-state batteries are a long-term goal, their complex manufacturing processes and high costs have been barriers to widespread adoption. In this context, semi-solid-state batteries have emerged as a practical alternative, offering performance improvements and enhanced safety relatively quickly, often leveraging existing production infrastructure. The Chinese government’s initiative to establish national standards is expected to further promote the adoption of semi-solid-state battery technology and foster healthy market development.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

By balancing improved energy density with cost reduction, semi-solid-state batteries are becoming a vital tool for automakers to enhance EV competitiveness and secure profitability. The forecast of over 15 GWh in annual shipments for the Chinese market indicates that this technology has already entered a practical application phase and is rapidly expanding its market presence. Continued technological refinement and cost optimization are expected to establish semi-solid-state batteries as a significant mainstream option in the EV market, serving as an important bridge towards the eventual widespread adoption of full solid-state batteries.