Qingtao (Kunshan) Energy Development Group Co., Ltd. is a leading Chinese enterprise dedicated to advancing solid-state lithium-ion battery technology and its industrialization. Headquartered in Kunshan, Jiangsu Province, the company leverages expertise from academic researchers such as Dr. Nan Cewen of Tsinghua University to drive innovation in next-generation energy storage systems. Focused on solid-state batteries, Qingtao specializes in power and energy storage applications for electric vehicles (EVs) and stationary systems.
Beyond battery production, the company operates vertically across the value chain, developing specialty materials (such as attapulgite clay derivatives), manufacturing equipment, and sustainable industrial solutions. Its partnerships with automotive giants like SAIC Motor underscore its role as a pioneer in bridging cutting-edge battery innovation with large-scale commercial applications. With a global outlook, Qingtao aims to redefine energy storage efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness through integrated R&D and manufacturing excellence.
Battery Technology
Qingtao’s core innovation lies in its solid-state lithium-ion battery systems, which address limitations of conventional lithium-ion batteries while enhancing performance. The company has developed three generations of technology:
- First Generation: Introduced scalable solid-state electrolytes and production processes, replacing liquid electrolytes to improve safety and energy density.
- Second Generation: Integrated high-voltage manganese-based cathodes and silicon-carbon composite anodes, achieving a 368 Wh/kg energy density. This generation is slated for mass production by 2025, targeting applications in SAIC Motor’s upcoming EV models.
- Third Generation: Currently under development, this iteration aims to exceed 500 Wh/kg energy density and enable ultra-fast charging (60 minutes for full charge with over 1,000 km range). The prototype has already demonstrated a maximum range of approximately 1,083 km, underscoring advancements in endurance and thermal stability.
Qingtao’s technology portfolio includes over 1,300 patent applications (800 granted), covering materials science, manufacturing equipment, and safety protocols. The company operates a 1 GWh solid-state battery production line and is expanding capacity to 15 GWh to meet rising demand. Additionally, it develops advanced machinery and specialty materials—such as attapulgite clay composites—to optimize battery performance and reduce reliance on finite resources.
Recent Projects
In 2023 and 2024, Qingtao accelerated strategic initiatives and industry engagement:
- 2024 Events: Hosted the Qingtao Energy Annual Conference, a corporate event emphasizing innovation and team culture, alongside participation in the 7th Lithium-Battery Technology & Industry Conference in Chengdu. These events highlighted Qingtao’s thought leadership and partnerships.
- Technology Launches: Unveiled a fast-charging battery prototype in late 2023, capable of delivering a 600-km range in 15 minutes. This advancement targets consumer EV markets and rapid-charging infrastructure solutions.
- Expansion Plans: Advanced construction of new 10 GWh and 15 GWh production facilities, supporting mass adoption of second-generation batteries in automotive and energy sectors by 2025–2027.
Investors
Qingtao’s growth is supported by prominent automotive partners and institutional stakeholders:
- SAIC Motor: The largest industrial investor, providing a 2.7 billion yuan investment in early 2023. SAIC and Qingtao also co-founded SAIC Qingtao New Energy Technology Co., Ltd., a joint venture focusing on next-generation solid-state batteries for EV integration.
- Strategic Alliances: Included investments from BAIC Motor Corporation and GAC Group (China), coupled with financial backing from government-backed entities. These partnerships have elevated Qingtao’s valuation to over 20 billion yuan, solidifying its status as a “Global Unicorn Enterprise” in clean energy technology.
Business Details
Location: Kunshan Development Zone, Jiangsu, China
Website: https://www.jsqingtao.com/en/index.aspx
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/104984433
