Less than a month after starting mass production of its new solid-state batteries, NIO has begun public testing of the new technology for the public in China. The company is actively increasing the production of solid-state batteries in joint production with CATL and WeLion.
When the Chinese automaker first unveiled its ET7 electric car in early 2021, it announced a new 150kWh battery consisting of semi-solid cells from WeLion.
At the end of 2023, WeLion delivered semi-solid batteries with a capacity of 360 Wh/kg. At the beginning of April this year, the company started mass production of new batteries in China. WeLion's new battery type has been tested at battery swap stations in Shanghai and Chengdu.
It is understood that the solid-state batteries will be available at exchange stations in China from May 1 to 31, giving the public the first opportunity to experience the energy-intensive battery technology.
During the first trial period, the new batteries will only be available to users of NIO Destination, which is the car rental service from the automaker. Customers who rent NIO electric vehicles for at least three consecutive days in May will be the first to experience the new technology.