Zeng Yuqun Details Challenges in Commercializing Solid-State Batteries

[Technical Progress] At the 2026 Summer Davos Forum in Dalian, Zeng Yuqun, Chairman of Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL), stated that the technology readiness level (TRL) of all-solid-state batteries has only reached Level 4.

Key Insight: Mass Vehicle Deployment Unlikely Before 2030

Zeng Yuqun emphasized that all-solid-state batteries remain in the laboratory proof-of-concept phase, significantly lagging behind mass production readiness (Level 9). The core bottleneck lies in the solid-solid interface challenge, which currently prevents high-yield, large-scale manufacturing.

Strategic Foundation: Three Parallel Paths Determine Commercialization Pace

He proposed that successful commercialization requires simultaneous advancement along three tracks: technology roadmap, product roadmap (ensuring sufficient supply and safety/reliability), and commercial roadmap (market acceptance). Even if a technological breakthrough occurs, initial applications will be limited to premium vehicle models, making rapid adoption in the mass market unlikely.