Nio’s innovative use of semi-solid-state batteries in its electric vehicles (EVs) is making headlines for pushing the boundaries of range and battery technology. One key development is the introduction of a 150 kWh semi-solid-state battery, which has enabled Nio’s ET7 to achieve an impressive 1,044 km (649 miles) range on a single charge, a milestone in the EV world.
The semi-solid-state battery used in the Nio ET7 combines the benefits of traditional lithium-ion batteries with the higher energy density offered by solid-state technology. This allows for longer driving ranges without significantly increasing the weight or size of the battery. While traditional EV batteries rely on liquid electrolytes, semi-solid-state batteries use a combination of solid and liquid components, enhancing safety and performance.
One of the standout features of Nio’s battery strategy is its “Battery as a Service” (BaaS) model. With BaaS, customers can purchase Nio vehicles without a battery and subscribe to different battery options depending on their needs. For instance, users with a 75 kWh battery can upgrade to a 100 kWh or 150 kWh battery temporarily, which makes long trips more convenient. This flexibility not only lowers the initial cost of the vehicle but also provides greater customization for consumers based on their driving habits .
Despite these advantages, the high cost of the 150 kWh battery remains a challenge. Nio President Qin Lihong has noted that the price of the 150 kWh battery is equivalent to that of an entire Nio ET5 vehicle, which starts at approximately 298,000 yuan ($42,100 USD). However, the BaaS model helps mitigate this cost by allowing consumers to rent batteries and upgrade only when necessary.
Nio’s focus on battery-swapping technology is another crucial element of its strategy. Battery swapping allows drivers to quickly replace a depleted battery with a fully charged one, significantly reducing downtime. In theory, swapping a battery can take as little as three minutes. This system is particularly advantageous for long-distance driving, where charging infrastructure may be sparse or time-consuming. However, the semi-solid-state battery, with its extended range, makes the need for frequent swaps less pressing, especially on long journeys .
This achievement in battery technology is not just limited to Nio. The broader EV industry is also making strides in solid-state and semi-solid-state batteries. Companies like Xpeng and Great Power are exploring similar advancements, with plans to introduce solid-state batteries into mass production by 2026. These batteries promise even greater energy densities and longer ranges, potentially revolutionizing the electric vehicle market as they become more commercially viable.
Looking ahead, Nio has several plans for incorporating the semi-solid-state battery into more vehicles, with mass production slated to begin in 2024. The company is also preparing to launch new models, such as the ET9, which is expected to feature this advanced battery technology as a primary option. The adoption of semi-solid-state batteries marks a significant step forward in addressing range anxiety, a common concern among EV drivers.
As the technology matures, solid-state and semi-solid-state batteries could become the standard in EVs, offering greater range, improved safety, and faster charging times. However, the high cost of production and the need for new infrastructure to support these batteries remain hurdles that the industry must overcome. Nio’s innovative approach, combining battery-swapping technology and flexible battery subscriptions, provides a potential roadmap for making these advanced batteries more accessible to the average consumer .
In conclusion, Nio’s semi-solid-state battery is a breakthrough in EV technology, pushing the limits of range while introducing new business models like BaaS to reduce costs for consumers. While there are still challenges to overcome, particularly regarding cost, the future of electric vehicles looks promising as battery technology continues to evolve.
