BYD tests solid battery with a range of 1,500 km in the SEAL
from Constantin Hoffmann to Jun 24, 2025
BYD wants electric cars from 2027 Fuel battery Building in series-the Model-3 competitor Seal starts. What does the record project mean for reach, loading times and the European market?
Introduction
The idea sounds almost too good to be true: load in twelve minutes and then drive 1,500 kilometers (after Chinese CLTC cycle). This is exactly what BYD promises with its solids cell, which has been developed for ten years, which is now being tested in the first prototypes of the Seal on public roads. For us in Germany this is (still) pure information - we cannot buy the battery before 2027. Nevertheless, the Chinese industry leader shows the competition where the journey should go.
Range and loading time record
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Energy density according to BYD: 400 Wh/kg -so clearly over today's lithium-ion values (150-300 WH/kg).
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Loaded 80 % in 12 minuteswhich corresponds to 1,500 km cltc. European WLTP values are likely to be somewhat lower, but are still significantly higher than everything that is currently available.
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If the charging capacity is confirmed, ultra-speed charging stations would hardly be blocked longer than for the classic tank stop.
Functional principle of the BYD grip cell
At Solid-State batteries, a firm electrolyte replaces the flammable liquid of conventional cells. This brings several advantages:
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Higher cell tension and energy density
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Lower thermal runaway risk (fire security)
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potentially longer lifespan and less degradation
BYD combines the fixed electrolytes with new cathode and anode materials, but does not reveal any details- a clear competitive advantage if the production maturity succeeds.
Timetable up to the large series
| Year | milestone | comment |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Straßent tests SEAL prototype | currently started in China |
| 2027 | Series start Seal Solid State | Limited volume |
| 2028 | More BYD models | Limousine & SUV planned |
| 2030 | Mass production | According to the BYD, price level should correspond to today's Li-ion battery |
Consequences for the European market
Price: The SEAL starts in China at the equivalent of € 21,000, in Austria currently from € 47,980. With solid cells, the price is likely to rise - BYD is covered.
Competition: Mercedes, Volkswagen & Co. are also researching solids, but rather expect 2028-2030. So BYD could develop a clear lead.
Fear of range: 1,500 km according to the ClTC would still mean well over 1,000 km WLTP in Germany, depending on the driving profile and thus fundamentally change the discussion about charging infrastructure.
Conclusion
BYD makes you serious: The field test in the SEAL shows that solid batteries are no longer only laboratory vision. If the series start of 2027 succeeds, the Chinese manufacturer could further expand its lead in the event of efficiency and cost brutality - and massively increase innovation pressure for Germans and European manufacturers.