Nio, the renowned Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, is set to revolutionize the market with its latest breakthrough in battery technology. Newly released user manuals from Nio reveal the inclusion of a groundbreaking 150-kilowatt-hour semi-solid state battery pack, which will be made available on the Nio ES6 in China starting this July, according to Nio CEO William Li.
Unlike traditional lithium-ion or lithium polymer batteries that employ liquid or polymer gel electrolytes, solid-state batteries utilize solid electrolytes, enhancing their energy density and charging speed while occupying the same physical space.
This has prompted numerous companies to invest in solid-state battery technology due to its promising advantages over conventional lithium-ion batteries. The disclosed document provides insightful details about Nio's cutting-edge 150 kWh battery, supplied by Beijing WeLion Energy Technology.
Weighing in at 575 kilograms, the solid-state battery is slightly heavier than CATL's 100 kWh packs, widely utilized in Nio models. However, its impressive energy density of 261 watt-hours per kilogram surpasses CATL's unit by a substantial 44.44%, boasting a remarkable 180 Wh/kg.
Notably, the solid-state battery pack comprises 384 cells, a significantly higher number compared to the 96 cells found in CATL's unit. These new cells achieve an impressive energy density of 360 Wh/kg, as previously disclosed by WeLion, as reported by Cnevpost.
Solid-State Battery: Boosting Nio's SUV Range
During Nio's momentous Nio Day event in January 2021, where they unveiled their flagship ET7 electric sedan, the company also showcased the aforementioned solid-state battery, promising a staggering range of over 1000 kilometers (620 miles).
However, due to the ES6's less aerodynamic nature and potential additional weight as an SUV, the estimated range for the ES6 model with the new solid-state pack is slightly lower, resting at 930 kilometers (577 miles). It is plausible that future Nio sedans may surpass the 600-mile range threshold by leveraging this advanced solid-state battery technology.
It is important to note that the actual range may vary depending on geographical region and specific testing cycles employed. Nio has encountered challenges in scaling up production and achieving cost parity with existing battery technologies, likely contributing to the two-year gap between the initial announcement and the commencement of deliveries.
The introduction of solid-state batteries holds immense potential, and an increasing number of automakers are actively exploring ways to incorporate them into their lineup. Toyota, for instance, recently unveiled its own technological breakthrough, claiming the development of a solid-state battery capable of achieving an astonishing range of 745 miles with a mere 10-minute charging time.
Nio's groundbreaking 150-kilowatt-hour solid-state battery represents a significant leap forward in electric vehicle technology, promising enhanced range and improved energy density. As the industry continues to innovate, it is only a matter of time before solid-state batteries become a staple in the mainstream market, revolutionizing the future of electric mobility.