Nissan confirms its first EV with ‘game-changer’ solid-state batteries is still on track

Nissan is betting big on solid-state batteries to help power up a comeback. The automaker says the next-gen battery tech will be a “game-changer for EVs,” promising more range, faster charging, and lower costs. Nissan just confirmed its first EV with solid-state batteries is on track, but it may trail Toyota and Volkswagen to market.

When will Nissan launch its first solid-state battery EV?

After showcasing its all-solid-state battery pilot line at its Yokohama plant last year, Nissan is moving forward with the new tech.

In 2021, Nissan announced plans to launch its first EV with solid-state batteries by early 2029. The company said at the time that it was involved in “wide-ranging research and development,” including at the molecular level.

According to the latest update, it could be here slightly ahead of schedule. Nissan’s director of product planning in Europe, Christop Ambland, confirmed with Auto Express, saying, “Yes, we will be ready for SSB (solid-state batteries) in 2028.”

Ambland added that Nissan “can’t rush the process” and wants to ensure the new battery tech is “reliable, and ready to meet our customers’ expectations.”

Nissan believes, like many, that solid-state EV batteries can increase energy density by up to 30% compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, at a much lower cost.

It also said they offer the potential to cut charging times by one-third. In October, Nissan unveiled the Hyper Force EV concept, an electric supercar (that looks a bit like the GT-R meshed with a Tesla Cybertruck), boasting over 1,300 hp (1,000 kW).

Nissan hinted the new battery tech could be used to power its upcoming electric sports cars, like an electric GT-R. Although it’s blurred the Hyper Force concept wore a GT-R logo up front.

It will initially be used for EVs, but Nissan could also utilize the new tech for its plug-in hybrids. Amberland hinted, “We are not sure where the technology could lead, but we are actively exploring all potential applications.”

Toyota, Volkswagen, and Stellantis are aiming to release their first solid-state battery-powered electric vehicles around 2027.

BYD and CATL, which are already dominating global EV battery sales, plan to launch their first EVs with solid-state batteries around 2027. It looks like Nissan could be late to the party once again.