Chery is developing a new battery technology aiming to substantially improve electric vehicle performance, particularly in cold weather. The Chinese automaker claims its advanced battery retains the majority of its range even at -22°F (-30°C), surpassing competitors like Dongfeng’s solid-state battery and traditional lithium-ion options. Initial production will focus on car-sharing and rental fleets, with plans for mass production beginning in 2027.
Range and charging times remain key concerns for potential electric vehicle buyers, despite significant advancements in both areas. However, new developments suggest those limitations may soon be overcome, particularly in challenging winter conditions.
Chinese manufacturer Dongfeng is currently evaluating a novel solid-state battery designed to preserve a high level of performance even in temperatures as low as -4°F (-20°C).
Next-Generation Battery Technology
The solid-state battery, expected to enter production later this year, boasts a higher energy density, faster charging capabilities, extended range under all conditions, a longer lifespan, and a significantly reduced risk of fire – representing a substantial leap forward in battery technology.
Dongfeng is not alone in its pursuit of solid-state batteries, with numerous manufacturers announcing plans to begin production of what is widely considered the next generation of battery technology. Toyota, for example, has stated its intention to release a vehicle equipped with a solid-state battery in 2027.
Shock Goal: Designed to Last 40 Years
BATTERY CASE: Solid-state batteries could potentially halve the size and weight of battery packs without compromising range.
Photo: Dongfeng
First to Market?
Chinese automaker Chery may be among the first to introduce a vehicle powered by a solid-state battery, with plans to begin production later this year.
The vehicle, known as the Exeed ES8, is reported to have a range of approximately 621 miles (1,000 kilometers) based on the Chinese CLTC standard, which tends to be more optimistic than other testing methodologies.
Now, news has emerged of another solid-state model in development – a shooting brake design currently referred to as Liefeng – also slated for production in 2026.
According to the manufacturer, this vehicle will achieve a range of 932 miles (1,500 kilometers) thanks to a solid-state battery with an energy density of 600 watt-hours per kilogram, as reported by CarNewsChina.
Current electric vehicle batteries typically have an energy density significantly below this level.
Breakthrough: Set to Deliver Dramatic Range
LIEFENG: First images of the vehicle with the advanced battery. All photos: Chery
LIEFENG: First images of the vehicle with the advanced battery. All photos: Chery
LIEFENG: First images of the vehicle with the advanced battery. All photos: Chery
Cold Weather Performance
Notably, the company claims the battery will retain the majority of its range even in temperatures as low as -22°F (-30°C).
In comparison, Dongfeng’s solid-state battery maintains around 72% of its efficiency at -22°F (-30°C), while many current lithium-ion batteries lose more than half their capacity at that temperature.
Initial production will be limited, with the first vehicles targeted toward car-sharing and rental fleets. Mass production is planned to commence in 2027.
Tested: Next-Generation EV Battery – A Game Changer
Chery also has a presence in the Norwegian market through its premium brand, Exlantix. Two models are currently available, the ET and ES, and are sold under the Exeed brand in its domestic market.
You can read our review of the latter here:
Well-Equipped Family SUV at a Budget Price
