China introduces first national standard for solid-state batteries for public comment
China has taken a step toward industrializing solid-state battery technology with the release of its first national standard for public consultation. On December 30, the National Automotive Standardization Technical Committee published “Solid-State Battery for electric vehicle – Part 1: Terms and Classification,” signaling the technology’s transition from laboratory research to commercial applications.
The new standard clearly defines terminology, classifications, and coding for solid-state batteries, establishing a rigorous framework for the emerging industry. According to insiders quoted by Chinese media outlet STCN, this is the first part of a planned four-part standard series that will eventually include performance specifications, safety regulations, and lifespan requirements. A separate technical specification for solid-state electrolytes is also being drafted.
One of the most notable aspects of the new standard is its strict classification system. Batteries are categorized based on ion transfer methods as liquid, hybrid solid-liquid, or solid-state batteries, eliminating the previously used “semi-solid-state” designation. The document further classifies solid-state batteries by electrolyte type (sulfide, oxide, polymer, halide, or composite), conducting ion type (lithium-ion, sodium-ion), and application area (high-energy or high-power).
The standard introduces a more stringent verification criterion than previous industry guidelines. To qualify as a solid-state battery, the weight loss rate must not exceed 0.5% under specific vacuum drying conditions—a more demanding threshold than the 1% limit established in the China Society of Automotive Engineers’ team standard released earlier this year.
The drafting committee explained that while solid-state batteries should contain no liquid electrolyte components, some solid electrolyte materials may decompose during testing, resulting in weight loss. Based on industry feedback indicating that genuine solid-state battery products consistently demonstrate weight loss rates below 0.5%, this figure was established as the new threshold.
Currently, there are no established solid-state battery standards for automotive use either in China or internationally. The introduction of this national standard is expected to resolve conceptual confusion, unify technical specifications, and facilitate supply chain coordination.
