100% EV “EASY” GUIDE 8:
Solid-State Batteries: Should You Wait Before Buying a New EV?
Solid-State Batteries: The "Holy Grail" of EVs?
If you’ve been reading about EVs lately, you’ve likely heard of Solid-State Batteries. They are being called the “Holy Grail” of motoring. But what are they, and should you wait for one? True Solid State batteries will bring 1. Much higher Energy Density (maybe double the range), 2. Higher Charging Rates (maybe 2x) and 3. Safer as no liquid electrolytes are used.
The Simple Science
Today’s EVs use liquid electrolytes to move energy around. Solid-state batteries swap that liquid for a solid material (like ceramic). It sounds small, but it’s a game-changer.
The Facts (BYD Seal 8 and MG 4x Batteries are SEMI Solid State:
It is an Advanced LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) Battery: The Blade 2 is a refined version of the original Blade. It still uses a liquid electrolyte, which means it is a conventional (though highly advanced) chemical setup.
Why people get confused: It achieves energy densities that rival early semi-solid state batteries, but the “Blade” refers to the physical shape (long, thin cells that act as structural beams) rather than a solid-state chemical change.
The 2026 Reality: While BYD is working on solid-state tech, the Blade 2 focuses on ultra-fast charging (6C rate). This means it can theoretically charge from 10% to 80% in about 9 minutes, which is incredible for an LFP battery, but it still has liquid inside.
The Pros & Cons:
The Pros:
Massive Range: They can hold up to double the energy, meaning 600+ miles on one charge.
Lightning Fast Charging: Imagine a 10% to 80% charge in just 10 minutes.
Safer: No liquid means no fire risk if the battery is damaged.
The Cons:
Cost: Currently, they are very expensive to make.
Wait Time: They aren’t in showrooms just yet.
Who is making True Solid State Batteries?
These maunufacturers are planning to release them in future.
Toyota: The leader in patents. They plan to have them in cars by 2027-2028.
Nissan & Honda: Both are building pilot factories now, aiming for a 2028 launch.
BMW & VW: Partnering with tech firms (like QuantumScape) to get them on the road assoon aspossible.
BYD & NIO: Already testing “semi-solid” versions in China which are available now.
The BYD Blade 2 & MG 4X batteries are a masterclass in Packaging and Speed and will give more range and speed of charging, but are still a ‘liquid’ battery.
They are more the ultimate refinement of current tech rather than a jump to the next generation (Solid State).
Should you wait for the True Solid State Batteries?
SIMPLE ANSWER:
No manufacturer has True SSD in production, While solid-state is exciting, the first models will be incredibly expensive flagship cars. It will likely be 2030 or 2032 before they become “affordable” for the rest of us.
If you need an EV now, today’s lithium batteries LFP, NMC are already excellent, lasting 150,000+ miles. If you are looking for a long distance EV I strongly suggest going for models with 800v architecture as charging “on the go” will be much, much quicker. See also 100% EV “EASY” GUIDE 8:
If like me you want to experience the extra Range and Higher charging speeds of the Semi Solid State battery models, then these should be available during the second half of 2026.