Chinese Automobile Manufacturer Plans to Introduce Solid-State Battery Electric Vehicles by 2026 and Reorganizes Its Brand
Chinese automaker Dongfeng eπ has unveiled a series of ambitious plans for its future electric vehicles (EVs), including the development of solid-state battery EVs and a strategic partnership with tech giant Huawei.
Solid-State Battery EVs by 2026
Dongfeng eπ is set to launch EVs equipped with solid-state batteries using silicon-carbon and high-nickel chemistries combined with high-conductivity solid electrolytes. This technology aims to improve energy density and thermal stability, targeting driving ranges exceeding 620 miles (1,000 km) on a single charge. The company plans to debut these EVs by 2026.
Next-Generation Electric Platform
The new EVs will be built on a platform with voltage architecture exceeding 1,000V, featuring a 1,700V silicon carbide power module and a 30,000 rpm motor. This platform supports a peak 12C charging rate and includes a “dual megawatt fast charge” system designed to add around 280 miles (450 km) of range in just five minutes. The first vehicle on this platform is expected to launch in 2026.
Collaboration with Huawei
Dongfeng eπ has confirmed a partnership with Huawei for co-developing a premium vehicle line. The first product of this collaboration will be a full-size SUV scheduled for debut in 2026, equipped with Huawei’s HarmonyOS 5 operating system and the QianKun ADS 4 advanced driver-assistance system.
Brand Restructuring and Global Strategy
Dongfeng has merged its eπ (Yipai), Fengshen, and Nano sub-brands into Dongfeng eπ Technology. The company will operate under two main brand pillars: Dongfeng eπ, focused on high-tech new-energy vehicles, and Dongfeng Fengshen, offering more traditional and hybrid models. Dongfeng eπ also aims to establish a worldwide retail network exceeding 2,000 outlets within the same timeframe.
Global Expansion
In addition to its domestic market, Dongfeng's global expansion includes launching more than 30 models across international markets by 2027, catering to both left- and right-hand drive regions. The solid-state battery EVs from Dongfeng eπ are expected to offer enhanced safety, energy density, and a range exceeding 620 miles.
The 'Smart Premium Series'
The 'Smart Premium Series' will be jointly developed with Huawei, marking a deeper collaboration between the two Chinese giants. The first vehicle in this series, a full-sized electric SUV, is slated for 2026.
Dongfeng eπ's strategy involves launching cutting-edge solid-state battery EVs on a high-voltage platform by 2026, with a strong technology focus and deeper integration with Huawei in premium vehicle development.
- Dongfeng eπ is aiming to improve electric vehicle (EV) technology with the development of solid-state battery EVs using silicon-carbon and high-nickel chemistries, targeting driving ranges exceeding 620 miles (1,000 km) on a single charge.
- The company's new EVs will be built on a platform with voltage architecture exceeding 1,000V, featuring a 1,700V silicon carbide power module and a 30,000 rpm motor, and is expected to offer a peak 12C charging rate and a "dual megawatt fast charge" system.
- Dongfeng eπ has partnered with tech giant Huawei for co-developing a premium electric vehicle (EV) line, with the first product being a full-size SUV equipped with Huawei’s HarmonyOS 5 operating system and QianKun ADS 4 advanced driver-assistance system.
- Dongfeng eπ plans to establish a global network of retail outlets exceeding 2,000, and aims to launch more than 30 models across international markets by 2027, catering to both left- and right-hand drive regions.
- The company's strategy also includes a deeper collaboration with Huawei in the development of the 'Smart Premium Series', a line of electric vehicles (EVs) with the first model, a full-sized electric SUV, due for release in 2026.
