The surging demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems, combined with the accelerating global energy transition, is driving rapid growth in the market for new energy technologies, particularly lithium-ion batteries. As the EV industry evolves, the need for batteries with higher energy density, improved safety, and greater environmental sustainability is becoming more urgent. Alongside advancements in battery technology, manufacturers are seeking cost-effective, mature production solutions on a Giga-scale to stay competitive.
Solid-State Batteries: The Frontier of Next-Generation Battery Technology
Traditional liquid-state lithium-ion batteries are reaching their limits, facing challenges such as limited energy density, poor low-temperature performance, and safety risks at high temperatures. Solid-state batteries, on the other hand, offer superior safety, energy density, lifespan, and performance stability, positioning them as the ideal choice for the next generation of high-performance batteries.
According to research institute EVTank’s “White Paper on the Development of China’s Solid-State Battery Industry (2024),” global shipments of solid-state batteries are expected to hit 614.1 GWh by 2030, predominantly comprising semi-solid-state batteries. By then, solid-state batteries are forecasted to penetrate around 10% of the overall lithium battery market, representing a market size of approximately €32 billion. Full solid-state battery commercialization is anticipated around 2030, with semi-solid-state batteries leading the way in the short term, gradually transitioning to full solid-state technology.
Since 2021, solid-state battery development has been integrated into the national strategies of major economies like the U.S., Japan, South Korea, and the European Union. These nations aim to achieve technological breakthroughs and large-scale production by 2030, targeting an energy density of 400 Wh/kg while prioritizing cost control. In China, solid-state battery development is a key focus in the “New Energy Vehicle Industry Development Plan (2021–2035),” with policies emphasizing the importance of scaling up new energy storage technologies.
Globally, solid-state batteries have become a strategic priority, marking a pivotal moment for the new energy sector.
Overcoming Mass Production Challenges for Solid-State Batteries
Mass-producing solid-state batteries requires overcoming technological bottlenecks, particularly in lithium battery equipment. The intricate manufacturing processes demand a combination of cutting-edge laboratory research and extensive on-site practical experience. Achieving cost reductions without compromising quality is essential, making the performance of the production line and the technical expertise of service providers critical to balancing both cost-efficiency and high standards.
Lead Intelligent Equipment (LEAD), a global leader in intelligent manufacturing solutions for the new energy industry, recognized the potential of solid-state batteries as early as 2018. Since then, LEAD has heavily invested in this technology to align with global trends and accelerate the domestic production of high-end equipment. In June, LEAD introduced its self-developed all-solid-state battery production line, accelerating global mass production efforts.
LEAD has identified key bottlenecks in the mass production of solid-state batteries, focusing on electrode and electrolyte film fabrication, as well as densification processes. The electrochemical and physical properties of materials greatly impact the thickness and ionic conductivity of solid electrolyte films. Traditional wet-process methods present challenges such as uneven dispersion of materials, inconsistent film quality, and excessive cell deformation during compression—factors that impede efficient mass production of solid-state batteries.
In response, LEAD’s R&D team has pioneered a groundbreaking dry electrode manufacturing technology. This approach utilizes a high-efficiency mixer with an innovative design for shear mixing of raw materials while eliminating solvent use, thereby enhancing electrode performance. Drawing on years of expertise in calendering equipment manufacturing, LEAD has developed advanced dry electrode forming and lamination technology that ensures consistent, high-quality electrodes, enabling efficient mass production. The company´s state-of-the-art equipment for ultra-thin electrolyte film fabrication and coating features innovative components that significantly enhance production efficiency, quality, and automation.
Currently, the primary focus in solid-state battery production is on prototype cell manufacturing, which typically involves single-layer or limited multi-layer designs. In this context, issues like edge collapse from the compression process have a minimal impact on battery performance. However, addressing these challenges is crucial for advancing all-solid-state battery production, as densification technology is vital for large-scale cell manufacturing. LEAD’s proprietary densification technology strikes a balance between battery performance and mass production. By integrating advanced cell insulation framing technology, LEAD’s equipment minimizes edge shearing and collapse during compression, significantly enhancing the stability of solid-state battery mass production and reducing the risk of short circuits post-densification.
Driving Innovation for a Sustainable Future in Solid-State Battery Manufacturing
From R&D to commercialization, solid-state battery manufacturing must effectively balance yield, cost, and environmental sustainability. To address the challenges of stringent production requirements, energy consumption reduction, and enhanced sustainable performance, LEAD is spearheading innovation with “unmanned, integrated, and intelligent” production lines. This approach not only integrates equipment but also prioritizes safety throughout the production process.
In addition to essential equipment covering all stages of solid-state battery production, LEAD enables seamless integration between machines and optimizes overall process control and traceability. Through its proprietary Lead ACE smart manufacturing turnkey solution, LEAD offers highly automated and intelligent production line solutions tailored for solid-state battery manufacturers. By simplifying processes, shortening production cycles, and precisely controlling the mini-environment, Lead ACE ensures high-efficiency, high-quality production while significantly reducing energy consumption, labor costs, and overall investments. This empowers customers to lower costs, enhance efficiency, and foster sustainability, driving the industry toward a new era of green, low-carbon production.
LEAD has successfully addressed the technical challenges of mass-producing solid-state batteries, achieving comprehensive whole-line solutions. By doing so, LEAD is not only advancing solid-state battery production but also propelling the industry into a significant new phase of development.
A 20-Year Commitment to Technical Excellence and Advancing Energy Transition
LEAD’s leadership in solid-state battery manufacturing is the result of 20 years of technical expertise. With a strong foundation in R&D and engineering, LEAD tailors production systems to meet the demands of various battery types, including lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries, delivering efficient and stable production lines.
Since 2023, LEAD has partnered with industry giants and secured orders for full solid-state battery production lines from renowned automotive and solid-state battery companies worldwide. Key pilot line equipment, such as dry electrode film-forming equipment, stacking machines, and pouch assembly lines, has been exported to the U.S. and Europe, supporting customer process development and validation. Additionally, LEAD’s innovative technologies in slurry mixing, dry film forming, calendering, stacking, assembly, formation, intelligent logistics, and more have achieved remarkable results on the world’s first solid-state battery mass production line, propelling the industry to new heights.
As solid-state battery technology matures, LEAD is poised to serve high-end EVs, energy storage, and consumer electronics markets. With operations in over 20 countries and regions, and a team of more than 5,000 R&D personnel, LEAD offers a one-stop service for new energy smart manufacturing, from consulting and design to installation and future upgrades.
LEAD’s establishment of a European logistics center further strengthens its global service network, ensuring shorter delivery times and enhanced efficiency for European customers. As solid-state battery commercialization accelerates, LEAD’s technological leadership will be instrumental in driving the global energy transition.
Through its innovative solutions, LEAD is helping to shape a sustainable future for the electric vehicle and energy storage industries, empowering the next generation of green, low-carbon production.
