Boost for EVs: Chinese carmaker Chery to begin testing solid-state batteries next year

Chery's commitment of US$1.49 billion and 1,200 engineers to solid-state battery development signals a significant push from a major Chinese automaker. While the technology promises greater energy density and safety, the chairman's caution about not installing them until "absolutely safe" highlights the current hurdles. No solid-state batteries are yet in mass-produced EVs, indicating the long road ahead for commercialization. This investment reflects China's broader strategy to lead in advanced EV components, moving beyond current lithium-ion limitations. For the Chinese EV market, this could mean a competitive edge in future battery tech, but it also underscores the substantial R&D costs and risks involved in bringing such innovations to scale. The real story for Asia is not just Chery's investment, but the intense race among Chinese players to dominate next-generation EV battery technology. Chery, as China's largest car exporter, could set a precedent for other domestic manufacturers. The challenge lies in translating laboratory breakthroughs into safe, cost-effective mass production. The next two years of testing will be critical in determining if Chery can indeed spearhead this shift, or if the technology remains a distant prospect for widespread adoption across the region's burgeoning EV sector.