China Considers Automaker Subsidies for Solid-State Battery Tech

The Chinese government could be spending $830 million in subsidies to support six of its domestic automakers in their quest to develop solid-state batteries for battery-electric vehicles.

According to Communist Party-owned China Daily, the government is considering the move to boost R&D in the technology currently being worked on by CATL, BYD, China FAW, SAIC Motor, Beijing WeLion and Geely.

However, the move will spur further criticism of Chinese automakers trying to avoid trading tariffs with claims of unfair government subsidies that allow manufacturers to dump cheap products on western markets, including Europe and the U.S.

CnEVPost reports the newspaper as saying the subsidy program is divided into seven categories focusing on different solid-state battery technology routes, including polymers and sulfides. Solid-state battery technology is being seen as a game-changer for BEVs offering longer range, a lower risk of fire and reduced production costs.

The support package will also promote companies and automotive suppliers to boost investment in solid-state battery R&D, the newspaper report says.