Delivery will begin in April 2024
WeLion will supply the first batch of 150 kWh semi-solid state batteries (SSB) in April 2024 to Nio. Supply will gradually increase and depend on consumer demand.
Beijing-based WeLion New Energy Technology unveiled the first prototype for testing in June. Meanwhile, Nio conducted various internal tests, including a trip from Kunming to Beihai, setting a record for electric vehicles with a result of 1,145 kilometers on a single charge. However, Kunming is located at an altitude of 1890 m, and Beihai — coastal city, so some Chinese media criticized the test.
But last week, William Lee, co-founder and CEO of Nio, personally tested the new 150 kWh semi-solid-state battery. Driving a large Nio ET7 sedan, Lee and his co-driver drove 1,044 km with 3% battery charge remaining, which should have been enough for another 30 km. The average travel speed was 83.9 km/h. Travel time was 12.4 hours excluding stops (14 hours in total). Temperatures during testing ranged from -2°C to +12°C (28°54°F). The average temperature in the cabin was 20 °C.
«Nio's 150 kWh battery is currently the highest energy density battery among mass-produced batteries in the world and can be used with all Nio models that are commercially available» ;mdash; said William Lee.
WeLion's 150kWh semi-solid-state battery weighs 575kg, only 20kg heavier than Nio's current flagship 100kWh NMC battery.