Changan and Ganfeng Collaborate for Solid-State Battery Development

In a landmark collaboration, automotive powerhouse Changan Automobile and Ganfeng Lithium, the world's largest lithium producer by market capitalization, have joined forces to establish a joint venture marked by equal shareholding. The strategic partnership, formalized with a memorandum of cooperation signed in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, on December 22, aims to expedite the development and manufacturing of cutting-edge solid-state batteries. This visionary initiative is aligned with Changan's Shangri-La program, launched in 2017, dedicated to accelerating the transformation of its new energy vehicle (NEV) segment.

Changan and Ganfeng's collaboration materializes in the establishment of a joint venture company, characterized by equal shareholdings. The primary focus of this joint venture is to intensify research, development, and manufacturing activities related to solid-state batteries. Beyond the realm of batteries, the partnership also envisions exploration in diverse areas, encompassing lithium mining resources, lithium processing, battery materials, and the recycling of used batteries. This multifaceted collaboration signals a comprehensive effort to contribute to the sustainable evolution of battery technology.

As part of Changan's Shangri-La program, the joint venture reflects the commitment to hasten the new energy vehicle (NEV) transformation. The collaborative efforts are geared towards establishing a globally competitive research, development, and manufacturing base for solid-state batteries. Ganfeng's chairman, Li Liangbin, emphasizes the objective of fostering the rapid industrialization of solid-state battery technology through this joint venture.

The next-generation solid-state battery technology developed through this partnership is anticipated to find initial application in models produced by Changan's NEV unit, Deepal. This strategic move positions Changan at the forefront of adopting innovative battery solutions within its electric vehicle lineup.

Changan is poised for substantial growth in the battery sector, having announced ambitious plans during the Guangzhou auto show. The company aims to introduce eight models of in-house developed battery cells by 2030, spanning liquid, semi-solid, and solid technologies. The annual battery production capacity is projected to surpass 150 GWh, underscoring Changan's commitment to staying at the forefront of battery innovation.

Changan's pursuit of cutting-edge solid-state battery technology is strategic, with plans for gradual mass production set to commence in 2025. These solid-state batteries are projected to achieve energy densities ranging from 350 to 500 Wh/kg. Furthermore, Changan's forward-looking approach involves ongoing research into prototype cell designs for emerging battery types, including lithium-sulfur and metal batteries. The goal is to surpass energy densities of 1,300 to 1,500 Wh/kg, with the aim of incorporating them into mass-produced vehicles by 2035.

Ganfeng, a key partner in this venture, is no stranger to solid-state battery development. The company, in an investor conference on May 19, revealed that its first-generation solid-state batteries boast an energy density of 260 Wh/kg, with an annual production line capacity designed for 4 GWh. Additionally, Ganfeng's second-generation hybrid solid-state lithium batteries utilize lithium metal as the anode, achieving an impressive energy density of 400 Wh/kg.