Xiaomi has taken its first concrete step toward solid-state battery technology. It has publicly announced a patent for a new electrode design that aims to overcome critical hurdles such as energy density and ion conductivity. The patent improves battery performance by enabling ions to travel shorter distances with a layered electrode structure.

1,200 km range and 800 km charge in 10 minutes

At the heart of the new structure is a solid electrolyte composed of active materials, conductive agents, binders, polymers, and metal salts. This structure penetrates through the thickness of the electrode, allowing ions to move more efficiently.

Xiaomi states that this design is compatible with existing lithium-ion battery production lines. This is a significant advantage that could accelerate the technology’s transition to mass production. According to company data, the prototype battery, with its Cell-to-Body (CTB) structure, offers 77.8 percent volume efficiency.

Measuring just 120 mm in height, the battery pack is integrated into the vehicle’s floor, optimizing interior space usage and improving weight distribution. According to CLTC standards, the system, which is claimed to offer a range of over 1,200 kilometers, can provide a full charge of 800 kilometers in just 10 minutes.

Xiaomi’s move is part of the accelerating global solid-state battery race. Major players in the industry, including CATL, BYD, Toyota, SAIC, and BMW, are working on similar technologies. BMW has begun road testing a solid-state battery prototype for its i7 model, while CATL and SAIC plan to begin limited production by 2027. Toyota aims to introduce its first solid-state battery models between 2027 and 2028.

Solid-state batteries offer advantages in areas such as energy density, safety, and thermal stability by replacing liquid electrolytes with solid materials. However, this technology still faces several challenges: low ionic conductivity, electrode-electrolyte interface contact issues, and lithium dendrite formation, which remain to be overcome. The industry is continuing its research on sulfide-, oxide-, and polymer-based electrolytes, each with different balances of conductivity, stability, and manufacturability.

Xiaomi’s patent is particularly notable for its solution to the problem of ion movement within thick electrodes. This development is a critical step for fast-charging applications. Analysts believe that this technology could help Xiaomi reduce its reliance on third-party battery suppliers for its electric vehicles.

The widespread adoption of solid-state batteries is not expected until 2030. However, Xiaomi’s entry into the market demonstrates that this technology is being taken more seriously within the industry and that investment is increasing. This could herald a new era in energy storage systems.