Stellantis Begin Road Testing Solid-State Batteries in 2026

The race to revolutionise electric vehicle technology is heating up, and Stellantis is making a bold move. The global automotive group — home to brands like Jeep, Peugeot, Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Vauxhall — has announced plans to begin road testing solid‑state batteries in 2026.

If successful, this could mark one of the biggest leaps forward in EV performance, safety and affordability in years.

What Are Solid‑State Batteries?

Solid‑state batteries replace the liquid or gel electrolyte found in today’s lithium‑ion batteries with a solid material. This seemingly simple change unlocks major benefits:

Key Advantages

• Longer lifespan — slower degradation over time
• Higher energy density — more range from the same size battery
• Faster charging — significantly reduced charging times
• Improved safety — no flammable liquid electrolyte

These improvements could transform the EV experience for everyday drivers.

If you’re curious about how battery tech is evolving and how much EV battery range you actually need, this guide may help here.

You can also recycle your EV battery too, and feel free to find out more about this here.

Stellantis’ 2026 Road‑Testing Plan

Stellantis has partnered with Factorial Energy, a U.S.‑based solid‑state battery specialist, to accelerate development. The company plans to:

• Begin real‑world road testing in 2026
• Launch its first solid‑state‑equipped vehicle in 2027, starting with the Charger Daytona EV
• Integrate the technology across its brands as part of its long‑term electrification strategy

CEO Carlos Tavares has emphasised that battery innovation is central to Stellantis’ goal of making EVs more affordable and appealing to mainstream buyers.

With more than 75 EV models planned by 2030, solid‑state batteries could play a major role in achieving that vision.

Why Solid‑State Batteries Matter

Solid‑state technology could solve some of the biggest barriers to EV adoption:

1. Longer Range

Higher energy density could push EV ranges beyond 600 miles on a single charge.

2. Faster Charging

Reduced charging times mean less waiting around at public chargers.

3. Better Safety

Solid electrolytes dramatically reduce the risk of overheating or thermal runaway.

4. Lower Long‑Term Costs

Longer‑lasting batteries could reduce maintenance costs and improve overall vehicle value.

These improvements could make EVs more practical for long‑distance drivers and more appealing to those hesitant about switching.

The Race to Solid‑State

Stellantis isn’t alone. Toyota, BMW and Ford are also racing to bring solid‑state batteries to market. However, mass production remains a challenge due to:

• Manufacturing complexity
• High material costs
• Durability testing requirements

Stellantis’ decision to begin road testing in 2026 suggests confidence that the technology is nearing commercial readiness.

If they hit their targets, they could gain a major competitive edge.

What This Means for Drivers

For motorists, solid‑state batteries could mean:

• Longer‑range EVs
• Shorter charging stops
• Safer battery systems
• Lower running costs
• More affordable EV options

As governments push toward stricter emissions rules and phase out petrol and diesel cars, solid‑state technology could make the transition smoother and more appealing.

Roll on 2026 — the EV landscape is about to get interesting.

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