Auto & Heavy Industry Outlook

Next-gen batteries: SSB/Na-ion/LFP/BESS ramps China vs US supply risks/circularity

Next-gen batteries: SSB/Na-ion/LFP/BESS ramps China vs US supply risks/circularity

Key Questions

What advances has CATL made in sodium and solid-state batteries?

CATL is advancing sodium-ion and solid-state batteries, with prices projected to reach $200/kWh, increasing competition for traditional lithium-ion packs.

How is Ford repurposing its Glendale battery plant?

Ford is retooling its former BlueOval SK plant in Glendale for $2 billion to produce battery energy storage systems (BESS) amid shifting EV demand.

What is WeLion's achievement in solid-state batteries?

WeLion has developed an 824 Wh/kg solid-state battery, marking a significant energy density milestone for next-generation EVs.

What is the projected size of the battery manufacturing equipment market by 2030?

The battery manufacturing equipment market is expected to exceed $60 billion by 2030, driven by global EV and BESS expansion.

How is Northvolt's failed factory being repurposed?

Northvolt's Swedish gigafactory is being converted into a data center using a salvage model led by Lyten, highlighting circularity in battery infrastructure.

What improvements does Donut Lab's battery offer for cold weather?

Donut Lab's battery retains 99% power at -22°F, addressing a key limitation in EV winter performance.

How are OEMs like Stellantis pivoting in battery chemistry?

Stellantis is shifting toward LFP chemistries and 800V architectures to reduce costs and improve charging speeds.

Why is upstream traceability becoming important for EV batteries?

Proactive traceability in battery supply chains is replacing traditional QC methods to manage raw material risks and ensure compliance.

CATL sodium/SSB advances; prices to $200/kWh. Ford Glendale $2B BESS retool; Stellantis LFP/800V pivot; WeLion 824 Wh/kg SSB; Donut Lab cold performance. Battery equipment market $60B by 2030. Upstream monitoring shifts EV battery QC to proactive traceability. New: Northvolt gigafactory repurposed as data center via Lyten salvage model.

Sources (63)
Updated May 23, 2026