LG Energy Solution has shared a candid update on the state of solid-state battery development, emphasizing that large-scale production hurdles remain. While the technology promises major advances for electric vehicles, LGES executives say mass-market adoption in EVs is still some way off.
Solid-State Batteries Face Production Barriers
During a media roundtable at its new Lansing, Michigan battery plant, LG Energy Solution addressed the current status of solid-state battery technology. Robert Lee, North America president for LGES, explained that while solid-state batteries offer excellent energy density, scaling up to large form factors suitable for EVs is proving difficult. “The problem with solid state is large-scale production,” Lee said. “If you’re making very large form factors, most companies are struggling.”
Lee noted that solid-state batteries are more feasible in smaller devices, and that widespread use in electric vehicles is not imminent.
Non-Automotive Applications to Lead Commercialization
According to LGES, solid-state batteries are likely to reach mass commercialization in non-automotive sectors before they appear in mainstream EVs. Lee suggested that consumers may see solid-state batteries in smartphones as much as a decade before they are common in electric vehicles. Specialized applications are expected to come first, with energy storage systems and performance-focused prototypes also under development.
Real-World Testing and Global Competition
Automakers and battery startups are actively testing solid-state batteries in prototype vehicles. Last year, Mercedes-Benz achieved nearly 750 miles (~1,207 km) on a single charge in a prototype EQS sedan using a semi-solid-state battery from Factorial Energy. BMW has installed an all-solid-state battery from Solid Power in a prototype i7, and Stellantis is evaluating a semi-solid-state pack in the Dodge Charger Daytona EV.
In China, companies such as BYD, CATL, and Geely are pushing aggressively to launch pilot programs for solid-state batteries in 2027, with broader deployment targeted by the end of the decade.
Advancements in Lithium-Ion and Sodium-Ion Technologies
While solid-state batteries remain in development, LGES is also advancing other battery chemistries. The company is collaborating with General Motors on lithium-manganese-rich (LMR) batteries, which use less nickel and cobalt and more manganese. GM plans to use these LMR batteries in its full-size trucks and SUVs from 2028, targeting over 400 miles (~644 km) of range at a cost similar to lower-cost LFP batteries.
LGES is preparing to manufacture new 46-series lithium-ion cells at its upcoming Arizona gigafactory. These larger-format cells are designed for next-generation EVs with structural battery packs, and future improvements could enable 10-minute charging times and enhanced safety. The company is also piloting sodium-ion batteries for energy storage systems, following CATL’s lead in commercializing this technology.
Competitor Comparison
LG Energy Solution is not alone in the solid-state battery race. Samsung SDI is developing a 10-layer stacked solid-state prototype targeting 900 Wh/L by 2026, with a focus on premium automotive applications. SK On is working on a 7-minute charging solid-state battery, aiming to set new benchmarks for fast-charging performance. These South Korean competitors are prioritizing different aspects of solid-state technology, from energy density to rapid charging.
Why this matters
Solid-state batteries are widely used in South Korea for consumer electronics, but scaling up for automotive use presents significant technical and manufacturing challenges. The solid-state battery materials market generated $26.3M (~AUD 36.7M) in 2024, highlighting the growing investment in this sector.
The ongoing development and competition among global battery makers will shape the future of EV performance, safety, and cost. However, as LGES executives point out, breakthroughs in large-scale production are still needed before solid-state batteries can transform the electric vehicle market.
What this means for buyers
For consumers considering an EV purchase in the next few years, current lithium-ion and emerging LMR battery technologies will remain the standard. Solid-state batteries are unlikely to appear in mass-market electric vehicles before the end of the decade. Buyers should focus on proven battery chemistries and watch for incremental improvements in range and charging speed.
Those interested in the latest battery innovations can monitor pilot programs and prototype demonstrations, but widespread adoption in EVs will take time.
Related coverage from The Electric Viking
For more on battery technology and EV innovation, see Absurdly Fast EV Chargers Are Coming To America, But Cars Aren’t Ready.
Key Specs
- Solid-State Battery Energy Density: High (exact value not specified)
- Prototype EV Range (Mercedes-Benz EQS): 750 miles (~1,207 km)
- Planned LMR Battery Range (GM full-size trucks/SUVs): 400 miles (~644 km)
- Solid-State Battery Commercialization Timeline (China): Pilot programs in 2027, wider deployment by end of decade
- Solid-State Battery Materials Market (2024): $26.3M (~AUD 36.7M)
Source
Images sourced from: energy-storage.news, wilx.com
