GBT begins mass production of solid-state cells
The Chinese battery developer Greater Bay Technology, supported by the GAC Group, has begun mass production of solid-state battery cells in Guangzhou. Production takes place on a converted lithium-ion line with an initial capacity of 1 GWh, which can be expanded to up to 4 GWh.
GBT has started mass production of solid-state cells in Guangzhou.
Image: Greater Bay Technology
On October 13, GBT will begin mass production of all-solid-state battery cells at its facility in Nansha near Guangzhou. Instead of using a newly built specialized plant, the company is utilizing a converted lithium-ion production line. Currently, 1 GWh of capacity for solid-state cells is available there. According to the company, additional capacity from the plant’s total 4 GWh capacity can also be reallocated if demand arises.
GBT claims that two of its production lines have met the requirements in tests conducted by the National Power Battery Innovation Center. The company positions itself as the first manufacturer whose cells have been verified under the new standards. These standards are designed to provide a clearer distinction between true solid-state batteries and semi-solid or hybrid cells, among other goals.
The actual technological approach lies in manufacturing. Many solid-state battery programs rely on sulfide electrolytes, which must be processed in oxygen-free and extremely dry environments, often requiring specialized production facilities for this purpose.
According to GBT, these cells are the first to have been tested and certified in accordance with the requirements of China’s standard GB/T 48093.1-2026. The standard “Solid-state battery for electric vehicle – Part 1: Terms and classification” was published on August 28, 2026. However, it will officially come into effect on January 1, 2028.
GBT takes a different approach. The company’s proprietary organic-inorganic composite electrolyte is first introduced into the cell as a liquid precursor and then solidified there. This process aims to create an adaptable, flexible interface with the electrodes.
Since the electrolyte is formed only within the cell, key production steps such as electrode manufacturing, stacking, formation, and testing can continue to be carried out using conventional lithium-ion facilities according to GBT. The main modification was made to the electrolyte filling process, where the precursor is injected and hardened in a dry, oxygen-free environment.
GBT relies on modified lithium-ion production methods
According to the company, the production line can manufacture both conventional lithium-ion cells and solid-state cells, with the ability to switch between the two technologies based on demand. GBT aims to reduce investment needs and financial risks associated with launching the new cell technology. The company also produces the solid electrolyte and key raw materials itself, claiming to hold over 50 patents related to this technology.
For its technology platform, GBT cites energy densities ranging from 260 to 480 Wh/kg, depending on cell generation and material configuration. The first generation currently produced uses pouch cells for automotive applications along with established electrode materials. Future generations are expected to incorporate lithium-metal anodes among other innovations. According to GBT, prototypes are already being tested by customers from various industries; some cells are also under testing and validation at automobile manufacturers.
Regarding safety, GBT refers to tests conducted in accordance with China’s battery standard GB 38031-2025. In an externally performed nail penetration test on a fully charged cell, neither fire nor explosion occurred. As for lifespan, the manufacturer only states that its cycle life is comparable to that of conventional lithium-ion cells.
Along with the start of production, GBT named its first partners. Hubei Liming Lithium Technology is set to integrate the cells into battery systems for vehicles and stationary storage. There is also a partnership with a development center for eVTOL aircraft in Shenzhen. Additionally, GBT claims to be in advanced discussions with several major automakers regarding commercial applications.
The battery developer backed by GAC operates in an environment where battery quality has recently become a growing concern even for the automaker itself. Reports of issues with LFP cells from supplier CALB are mounting for the widely sold Aion S in China, especially in vehicles with high mileage. GAC Aion and CALB have responded by expanding warranty and service measures. There is no connection to GBT or its solid-state technology.
GBT views electric vehicles as its primary target market for its solid-state cells. The company cites other applications including eVTOLs, humanoid robots, stationary storage systems, and specialized vehicles. In Europe, the battery developer is collaborating with commercial vehicle startup Flynt and offering its technology through cell supply, technology transfer, and joint ventures.
Whether this approach truly enables a faster and less capital-intensive path to the industrialization of solid-state batteries will now be determined in mass production. The key factor will likely be whether the technology can be manufactured in large quantities with consistent quality, competitive costs, and the performance specifications promised.
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