15 Major Automakers and Their Solid-State Battery Suppliers

Solid-state batteries are poised to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) industry, offering higher energy density, improved safety, and faster charging compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. As the global push for sustainable transportation intensifies, major automakers are investing heavily in solid-state battery technology, often partnering with specialized battery technology companies to accelerate development and commercialization. This article profiles 15 leading automakers and their respective solid-state battery suppliers or partners, highlighting their strategies and progress as of July 2025.

Toyota

Toyota has been a pioneer in solid-state battery research, aiming to commercialize the technology by 2027-2028. The company is developing its own solid-state batteries in-house, leveraging its extensive experience with hybrid vehicles like the Prius. Toyota has also partnered with Panasonic, a long-time collaborator, to advance solid-state battery production. Their focus is on achieving high energy density (up to 400 Wh/kg) and enabling ultra-fast charging for EVs.

Volkswagen Group

Volkswagen Group, encompassing brands like VW, Audi, and Porsche, has invested heavily in solid-state technology through its partnership with QuantumScape, a U.S.-based company specializing in solid-state batteries. QuantumScape’s solid-state cells promise energy densities exceeding 350 Wh/kg and charging times as low as 15 minutes. Volkswagen has committed over $300 million to QuantumScape and plans to integrate these batteries into premium models by 2026.

Hyundai Motor Group

Hyundai Motor Group (Hyundai, Kia, Genesis) is collaborating with Factorial Energy, a U.S. startup developing solid-state batteries with a proprietary FEST (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology) solid electrolyte. Hyundai aims to use these batteries to achieve ranges exceeding 500 miles in future EVs, with pilot production expected by 2027.

BMW

BMW is working with Solid Power, a Colorado-based company specializing in sulfide-based solid-state batteries. Solid Power’s cells offer energy densities improvements (up to 390 Wh/kg) and enhanced safety due to their non-flammable electrolyte. BMW plans to introduce solid-state batteries in its Neue Klasse EV platform, with prototype vehicles expected by 2026.

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz has partnered with ProLogium, a Taiwanese company known for its ceramic-based solid-state batteries. ProLogium’s technology focuses on high safety and longevity, with cells capable of over 1,000 cycles. Mercedes-Benz aims to integrate these batteries into its EQ lineup by 2028, targeting luxury EVs with extended ranges.

Stellantis

Stellantis, which includes brands like Jeep, Chrysler, and Peugeot, has invested in Factorial Energy alongside Hyundai. The partnership focuses on developing solid-state batteries for Stellantis’ electric SUVs and trucks, with goals of achieving 20-30% higher energy density than current lithium-ion batteries and commercialization targeted for 2027.

General Motors

General Motors (GM) is collaborating with SolidEnergy Systems, a startup acquired by Dyson before pivoting to EV batteries. SolidEnergy’s lithium-metal anode technology aims for energy densities above 400 Wh/kg. GM plans to deploy these batteries in its Ultium platform, with production-scale testing slated for 2028.

Ford

Ford has partnered with Solid Power, alongside BMW, to develop solid-state batteries for its Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning models. Solid Power’s sulfide-based cells promise improved range (up to 600 miles) and reduced weight. Ford aims to begin limited production by 2027.

Tesla

Tesla is pursuing in-house solid-state battery development while also exploring partnerships with companies like QuantumScape. Tesla’s focus is on integrating solid-state batteries into its next-generation Roadster and Cybertruck, targeting energy densities improvements and charging times under 10 minutes by 2028.

10. BYD

BYD, a leading Chinese EV manufacturer, is working with QingTao Energy, a Chinese solid-state battery developer. QingTao’s semi-solid-state batteries, already in limited use, offer 300-350 Wh/kg, and BYD plans to scale these for its Blade Battery platform, with mass production expected by 2026.

Changan Automobile

Changan Automobile, under its “Golden Bell Cover” battery brand, is accelerating solid-state battery development through a strategic investment in Tailan New Energy. Tailan specializes in novel solid-state lithium battery materials and processes. Changan plans to begin semi-solid-state battery production in 2025, with full solid-state batteries targeted for 2027, aiming for deep integration in its EV lineup.

SAIC Motor

SAIC Motor, a major Chinese automaker, has partnered with QingTao Energy, alongside BYD, to develop solid-state batteries for its MG and Roewe EV brands. QingTao’s technology focuses on high-capacity cells (up to 360 Ah) with improved safety and longevity, targeting commercialization by 2026.

NIO

NIO, another Chinese EV leader, is collaborating with WeLion New Energy, focusing on semi-solid-state batteries with energy densities around 360 Wh/kg. NIO has also signed a strategic partnership with CATL to advance battery-swapping technology compatible with solid-state cells, with production expected by 2026.

Honda

Honda is working with SES AI Corporation (formerly SolidEnergy Systems) to develop lithium-metal solid-state batteries for its upcoming EV models. SES’s technology emphasizes high energy density and fast charging, with Honda targeting integration into its e:Architecture platform by 2028.

Nissan

Nissan is partnering with Envision AESC, its long-time battery supplier, to develop solid-state batteries for the next-generation Leaf and other EVs. Envision AESC’s solid-state cells aim for 400 Wh/kg and enhanced safety, with Nissan planning prototype testing by 2026 and production by 2028.

Industry Trends and Challenges

Solid-state batteries promise significant advantages, including energy densities of 300-400 Wh/kg (vs. 150-250 Wh/kg for current lithium-ion batteries), faster charging, and improved safety due to non-flammable electrolytes. However, challenges remain, including high production costs, complex manufacturing processes (e.g., solid electrolyte membrane thickness, electrode interface issues), and scalability hurdles. Many automakers are starting with semi-solid-state batteries, which use a hybrid gel-solid electrolyte, as a bridge to fully solid-state systems.

The global race for solid-state battery supremacy is intensifying, with China, the U.S., Europe, and Japan investing heavily. For instance, China’s solid-state battery ecosystem, supported by a 6 billion CNY subsidy in 2024, is advancing rapidly, with companies like Tailan and QingTao leading the charge. Automakers are balancing in-house development with strategic partnerships to secure supply chains and technical expertise, aiming to meet the growing demand for EVs with ranges exceeding 500 miles and charging times under 15 minutes.

Conclusion

The transition to solid-state batteries marks a pivotal moment for the EV industry. By partnering with innovative suppliers like QuantumScape, Solid Power, and Tailan New Energy, the 15 automakers profiled are positioning themselves to deliver next-generation EVs with superior performance and safety. While commercialization timelines range from 2025 to 2028, the collaborative efforts between automakers and battery specialists are setting the stage for a transformative era in electric mobility.