Climate & Environment
Solid-State Battery
Definition
A solid-state battery replaces the flammable liquid electrolyte of conventional lithium-ion cells with a solid electrolyte (ceramic, sulphide or polymer), enabling lithium-metal anodes and potentially much higher energy density, faster charging, improved safety and longer life. Major manufacturers have announced commercialisation targets in the late 2020s, with prototypes demonstrated but manufacturing yield, cost and interface stability remaining the key hurdles.
References
This reference provides supporting context for how “Solid-State Battery” is defined and used.
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Overview
How it is used
The technology structures automaker roadmaps, battery R&D competition (notably Japan, South Korea, China and US startups), and aviation electrification concepts requiring extreme density.
Why it matters
Whoever industrialises solid-state batteries first resets the economics of electric transport; it is the industry's highest-stakes race.