Chinese electric vehicle and battery manufacturer BYD has announced progress in its sodium-ion battery research, reporting a cycle life of up to 10,000 charge–discharge cycles. The company revealed the milestone during a recent investor briefing, noting that plans for mass production will depend on market conditions and customer demand.
Mainstream lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries used in electric vehicles typically achieve between 2,000 and 3,000 cycles, while energy storage systems can reach up to 10,000 cycles. BYD says its sodium-ion research has advanced to a third-generation technology platform, overcoming challenges such as sodium precipitation and high-temperature stability. These improvements were achieved through the development of highly stable poly-anion materials and enhancements to the electrochemical system.
BYD is currently the world’s second-largest power battery manufacturer. Its portfolio is largely focused on LFP technology, while other industry leaders have also begun exploring sodium-ion alternatives. For example, one major battery supplier launched its first-generation sodium-ion cells in 2021 and recently unveiled a prototype electric passenger vehicle fitted with these batteries, scheduled for a mid-2026 market debut.
In parallel with its sodium-ion efforts, BYD is pursuing multiple paths in solid-state battery development. The company highlighted sulfide-based solid-state cells as a promising direction for extending battery lifespan and enabling faster charging. BYD reiterated that its sulfide solid-state batteries are on track for small-scale production by 2027, consistent with previously outlined objectives. Solid-state research generally follows three main approaches—oxide, polymer, and sulfide electrolytes—with sulfide chemistry gaining particular attention for its potential performance benefits.
BYD’s dual focus on sodium-ion and solid-state technologies reflects broader trends in the battery industry as manufacturers seek to diversify their offerings and enhance energy density, longevity, and cost competitiveness. Continued advances in these areas could play a key role in accelerating electric vehicle adoption and improving grid-scale energy storage solutions.
Source: CNEV Post
