Chinese automaker Dongfeng Automobile is setting its sights on a major leap forward in electric vehicle (EV) technology with the development of a groundbreaking solid-state battery. This new battery, boasting an energy density of 350 Wh/kg, promises to significantly extend driving ranges and challenge existing lithium-ion battery limitations.
Dongfeng’s ambitious plan involves launching vehicles equipped with this advanced battery in September 2026. The company has already established a pilot production line capable of producing 0.2 GWh of these batteries annually, indicating their serious commitment to scaling up production. Crucially, Dongfeng projects that EVs powered by this technology will achieve a range exceeding 1,000 kilometers – a significant jump compared to the average electric vehicle range today.
This impressive performance stems from the innovative design of the battery itself. It incorporates a multi-component system combining a high-capacity ternary cathode, a silicon-carbon anode, and an oxide polymer composite solid electrolyte. This unique combination contributes to both enhanced energy storage capacity and improved safety characteristics.
Superior Performance in Extreme Temperatures
Dongfeng highlights the battery’s exceptional resilience against extreme temperatures as a key advantage. At -30°C (the equivalent of -22°F), the battery retains over 72% of its energy, surpassing the typical performance of conventional liquid-state ternary batteries which only manage around 60% capacity at such low temperatures. This capability is particularly important for regions experiencing harsh winters, ensuring reliable EV performance in challenging conditions.
Safety First: Withstanding Extreme Heat
Safety testing also paints a positive picture. The battery passed a rigorous thermal-chamber safety test conducted at 170°C (338°F), exceeding the national standard of 130°C (266°F) by a considerable margin. This impressive result underscores Dongfeng’s commitment to building robust and reliable batteries that can withstand potentially hazardous situations.
Unveiling the Mach Super-kV Platform: Charging in Seconds
Complementing this advanced battery technology is Dongfeng’s cutting-edge “Mach Super-kV Pure-Electric Platform.” Designed with a 1200 V high-voltage architecture, this platform features several game-changing capabilities:
- Lightning-fast charging: A self-developed 1700 V silicon-carbide power module enables ultra-rapid charging through a 2 MW single-gun charger. This translates to adding 2.5 km of driving range in just one second and an impressive 450 km within five minutes of charging.
- Convenience at your fingertips: The platform supports autonomous charging and contactless payment, streamlining the ownership experience for EV drivers.
Powerhouse Performance
The platform also houses a high-speed motor capable of spinning up to 30,000 rpm. When combined with the energy density of the new solid-state battery pack, it unlocks the potential for vehicles exceeding 1,000 km range.
Further bolstering safety are features such as a 1500 J impact-resistant battery and continuous thermal runaway monitoring over a 48-hour period. Motor-triggered fuse technology provides an additional layer of protection against potential electrical malfunctions.
Looking Ahead: Even Faster Charging and Higher Energy Density Batteries
Dongfeng’s EV ambitions don’t stop there. A fast-charging version of the 350 Wh/kg solid-state battery is in development, with vehicle deployment slated for December 2027.
Moreover, research is underway on a sulfide-based solid-state battery boasting an even higher energy density of 500 Wh/kg, signaling Dongfeng’s drive to constantly push the boundaries of battery technology.
The company’s clear roadmap and substantial investment in both its pilot production line and cutting-edge platform point to a future where long-range, safe, and rapidly rechargeable EVs become mainstream reality – and Dongfeng aims to be at the forefront of this electric revolution.
