Changan Automobile is gearing up to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) landscape with the introduction of solid-state batteries, promising a significant leap in performance and safety. The company announced that trial installations of its Golden Bell solid-state batteries will commence before the third quarter of 2026, marking a pivotal step in its ambitious battery development strategy.

Unveiling the Golden Bell Battery

On February 24, 2026, Changan revealed updates on its solid-state battery project via the Shenzhen Stock Exchange. The Golden Bell battery boasts an impressive energy density of 400 Wh/kg and is designed to deliver a range of over 1,500 km on a single charge. This technology not only outperforms traditional lithium-ion batteries, which typically range from 250-350 Wh/kg, but also enhances safety by 70% through integrated AI remote diagnostics.

Production Timeline and Future Prospects

The Golden Bell project, initiated in November 2023, includes a total of eight battery variants, comprising liquid, semi-solid, and solid-state types, with a target production capacity of 150 GWh. Following trials in 2026, mass production is set to begin in 2027, as Changan aims to validate its technology across various applications, including electric vehicles and robotics (CarNewsChina).

Context: Why This Matters

The global automotive industry is witnessing an accelerated shift towards solid-state batteries, with multiple players vying for dominance. Changan’s initiative is not just about its own progress; it positions the company within a broader race in China where competitors like BYD and CATL are also advancing their solid-state technologies. With a national standard expected to support commercialization as early as 2026, Changan’s advancements could serve as a benchmark for future developments in the sector (CNEVPost).

Complementary Innovations: Sodium-Ion Partnerships

In addition to the solid-state initiative, Changan is collaborating with CATL on sodium-ion batteries, which offer an energy density of 175 Wh/kg and are capable of functioning in extreme temperatures as low as -50°C. These batteries will first appear in the Changan Nevo Q05 and A06 models by mid-2026, diversifying Changan’s offerings and enhancing its competitiveness in various market segments.

The push for solid-state and sodium-ion technologies underscores a critical evolution in Changan’s battery strategy, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive landscape. As the industry gears up for a new era, Changan’s advancements may redefine expectations for electric vehicle performance and safety.