CATL solid-state batteries: small-scale production in 2027, mass production around 2030

The global push towards solid-state batteries is already under way, with several manufacturers claiming they will reach the market before the decade ends. The headline benefits are well known: higher energy density (in other words, more driving range), faster charging, improved safety, and a longer service life than today’s lithium-ion batteries.

Solid-state batteries: where CATL stands

In recent weeks, social media has been awash with claims that CATL - China’s world-leading battery maker - had produced a prototype battery capable of roughly 2000 km of range and a charging time of just 10 minutes, with serial production supposedly starting as early as 2027. CATL has denied that timeline.

Speaking to CarNewsChina, the company said: “Commercialisation (of solid-state batteries), including the development of the supply chain, is still some distance away.”

CATL added: “CATL continues to invest in the technology, maintaining technical leadership in the industry, and expects to achieve small-scale production by 2027.”

According to the Chinese outlet, that statement aligns with what CATL has been indicating in recent months: small-scale production by 2027, with mass production around 2030.

From the laboratory to mass production

The message is clear: despite rapid progress in research and development, moving from lab results to industrial-scale manufacturing remains a complicated process.

CATL has other solutions

While solid-state batteries are still not ready for full-scale rollout, CATL has continued to broaden its technology portfolio. In November last year, it unveiled the Tectrans battery, rated at 1000 kWh, aimed at heavy-duty lorries.

More recently, at the Shanghai Motor Show, it presented a Naxtra sodium-ion battery that can deliver up to 500 km of range, helped by an energy density comparable to LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries.

Last September, during the Munich Motor Show 2025, the brand also introduced the new Shenxing Pro battery, developed for European car makers. It is rated for up to 758 km WLTP range, a service life of 12 years or one million kilometres, and only 9% degradation after 200,000 km.

CATL summed up its position as follows: “The company places great emphasis on solid-state batteries, drawing on more than a decade of experience in research and development in this field. It has established an industry-leading R&D team and is increasing investment in solid-state battery technology, consistently maintaining a leading position in the sector. At present, the scientific challenges in the solid-state battery industry have largely been resolved, although some engineering issues still remain.”