China has reported a major step forward in electric vehicle battery technology, with researchers unveiling a lithium-metal battery capable of achieving energy densities beyond 700 Wh/kg.
The research, led by Chen Jun at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, focuses on a redesigned electrolyte that swaps oxygen atoms with fluorine. This change improves both ion movement and overall stability—two critical factors that have traditionally limited battery performance.
Test results show the battery can exceed 700 Wh/kg under normal conditions, while still maintaining close to 400 Wh/kg at temperatures as low as −50°C. These gains could translate into longer driving ranges and more reliable performance in colder climates, areas where EVs often face challenges.
The technology has already been tested in a prototype vehicle through a collaboration with FAW Group and its Hongqi brand. Developed alongside China Automotive New Energy Battery Technology Co. Ltd., the battery system is expected to support driving ranges of over 1,000 km on a single charge.
According to the researchers, efforts are now focused on scaling the technology, with mass production anticipated by the end of 2026.
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