Chery Group, parent of OMODA and JAECOO, is investing nearly US$1.5 billion in solid-state battery development, according to a report published in Chile. The program is expected to involve around 1,200 engineers, with new validation phases due to begin in 2027.
Solid-state cells replace the liquid electrolyte used in conventional lithium-ion batteries with solid materials. Chery has presented technology figures of up to 600 Wh/kg and theoretical driving ranges of 1,300–1,500 km, depending on operating conditions. Higher energy density could also allow a vehicle to retain a similar range with a smaller, lighter battery, potentially improving overall efficiency. These figures describe the technology’s potential; the report does not say that such batteries are already in production.
Durability, stability, cost and large-scale manufacturing remain obstacles to commercial deployment. The report also links the project to vehicles with increasingly demanding digital features, including driver-assistance systems, AI and connectivity. In Chile, where long intercity journeys make range a consideration, the technology could be relevant if it reaches market. JAECOO is also scheduled to appear at the Itaú Viña del Mar Marathon on October 4, where it plans to display vehicles including the JAECOO 7 SHS-P plug-in hybrid, which is claimed to offer up to 1,200 km of combined range.