China announces solid-state battery that can be fully charged in 3 minutes: A turning point for electric vehicles.
Chinese scientists have just unveiled a prototype solid-state battery with a charging speed comparable to traditional gasoline, achieving an energy density of 451.5 Wh/kg and a lifespan of 700 cycles.
The Chinese Academy of Sciences has just announced a breakthrough in solid-state battery technology with a prototype lithium-metal battery capable of fully charging in just about 3 minutes. This speed is comparable to the refueling time of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, promising to eliminate the biggest barrier for electric vehicle users today: long waiting times for battery charging.
Technical specifications and performance
The new battery prototype achieves an impressive energy density of up to 451.5 Wh/kg. In laboratory tests, the device demonstrated the ability to maintain stable performance after 700 continuous charge and discharge cycles. Compared to current standards in Europe and the US – where fast charging stations typically take 20 to 40 minutes to effectively charge – this technology represents a significant leap forward.
The global battery technology race
China is currently consolidating its leading position in the global electric vehicle battery supply chain. Major corporations such as BYD, CATL, and Ganfeng Lithium are focusing their efforts on solid-state battery architecture research to maintain their competitive edge. Notably, Western automakers are also actively seeking partnerships to avoid being left behind. For example, Stellantis signed a €1.17 billion agreement with Dongfeng Motor Corporation, while Volkswagen partnered with Xpeng to access advanced battery technology solutions.
Challenges of commercialization and safety issues
Despite possessing ideal specifications, high-density solid-state batteries still face significant hurdles before mass production is possible. Specifically:
- Fire safety:High-density batteries have a higher risk of overheating during ultra-fast charging or operation.
- Production line:The transition from laboratory to industrial scale requires a rigorous testing and certification system.
- Actual route:Many battery manufacturers predict that this technology can only be commercialized at the earliest in the period of 2026-2028.
In the near future, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries will remain the market's preferred choice due to their low cost and proven durability. However, China's 3-minute charging prototype has set a new standard, helping to shape the development direction of future electric vehicles.