The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is shifting into high gear. Stellantis—the global automaker behind brands like Jeep, Peugeot, and Fiat—is looking to charge ahead with a new breakthrough. Set to begin road testing solid-state batteries in 2026, Stellantis is betting big on this next-gen technology, which could dramatically improve EV performance, safety, and range.
So, what exactly are solid-state batteries, and why is this development so crucial for the future of electric vehicles? Let’s take a closer look at Stellantis’ bold move, what solid-state batteries could mean for the auto industry, and how this could affect drivers in the coming years.
What Are Solid-State Batteries?
According to BioLogic, Solid-state batteries are the next evolution in battery technology, designed to replace the traditional liquid or gel electrolyte found in current lithium-ion batteries with a solid electrolyte. In simple terms, they use solid materials to move energy instead of liquid, which results in significant advantages across the board.
These benefits, according to Energy Monitor include:
Longer lifespan: These batteries degrade slower over time, meaning they could last significantly longer than the current generation of EV batteries.
Higher energy density: More energy stored in the same space, leading to longer driving ranges.
Faster charging times: Solid-state batteries can charge quicker than their lithium-ion counterparts, getting drivers back on the road faster.
Improved safety: With no flammable liquid electrolyte, solid-state batteries are less prone to overheating or catching fire.
Stellantis’ 2026 Road Testing Plan
According to Stellantis, road testing of their solid-state batteries is expected to begin in 2026, with plans to have this technology fully integrated into their electric vehicles by 2027, with the Charger Daytona EV. This development follows their partnership with Factorial Energy, a Massachusetts-based startup specializing in solid-state battery technology. The two companies have been working together to accelerate the development of solid-state solutions, aiming to bring more efficient and safer EV batteries to market.
CEO Carlos Tavares, has emphasized the importance of battery innovation in Stellantis’ strategy, noting that solid-state batteries could be the key to making EVs more affordable and appealing to a broader range of consumers. With plans to have over 75 EV models across their brands by 2030, this move is part of Stellantis’ ambitious goal to electrify its lineup and meet global emissions targets.
Why Solid-State Batteries Matter for EVs
If solid-state batteries live up to their promise, they could be a game-changer for the EV industry. One of the biggest hurdles for EV adoption has been range anxiety – the fear of running out of power before reaching a charging station. Solid-state batteries, with their higher energy density, could dramatically extend the range of electric vehicles, making long-distance driving more feasible.
Imagine an electric car that can travel 600 miles or more on a single charge – suddenly, road trips and long commutes become far more practical. In addition, the faster charging times would cut down on the time spent at charging stations, making EV ownership far more convenient.
But it’s not just about range. Safety is another crucial benefit. While lithium-ion batteries are generally safe, they do come with a risk of thermal runaway—a situation where the battery overheats and potentially catches fire. Solid-state batteries virtually eliminate this risk, making them a much safer option, especially for mass-market vehicles.
According to Autocar, Stellantis is betting that solid-state technology will be ready for commercial rollout by the end of the decade, which could put them at the forefront of EV innovation .
A Race Against the Clock
Stellantis isn’t the only automaker racing to bring solid-state batteries to market. Toyota, BMW, and Ford are all heavily invested in developing this next-gen tech, with timelines similar to Stellantis’. Solid-state batteries, while promising, have yet to be mass-produced at scale, given there are still technical challenges to overcome.
That said, Stellantis’ decision to begin road testing in 2026 shows that the company is confident in its progress. The real-world testing will be a critical phase, allowing Stellantis to assess how these batteries perform in everyday driving conditions and make any necessary adjustments before a full-scale rollout.
As Electrek notes, if Stellantis can meet its timeline, it could significantly shake up the EV landscape, giving them a competitive edge over rivals still relying on traditional lithium-ion batteries .
What this means For Drivers
For drivers, the shift to solid-state batteries could mean better electric vehicles across the board. Expect to see EVs with longer ranges, quicker charging times, and improved safety. All of this makes EVs even more attractive as governments worldwide push for stricter emissions regulations and phase out internal combustion engines.
Furthermore, solid-state batteries could help bring down the cost of EV ownership. With a longer battery lifespan and improved efficiency, EVs might not only become cheaper to produce, but also more economical to maintain over time. By reducing the need for frequent charging and extending the vehicle’s life, Stellantis’ solid-state initiative could play a key role in making EVs more accessible to the general public. Roll on 2026 we say!