Chery Exlantix ET Spotted Testing with Solid-State Battery Prototype

A prototype of Chery’s Exlantix ET electric SUV has been seen testing with a visibly labeled solid-state battery system, signaling early real-world trials of the company’s high-density battery ambitions. The vehicle was spotted near the headquarters of Gotion High-Tech in Hefei, Anhui province, and displayed clear external markings reading “All-solid-state battery.”

The Exlantix ET, known domestically as the Exeed Sterra ET, is part of Chery’s premium EV lineup and a candidate platform for next-generation battery deployment. The sighting follows Chery’s October 2024 announcement that it aims to begin solid-state battery batch production in 2027, with performance targets of 600 Wh/kg energy density and a driving range of up to 1,500 kilometers.

Gotion High-Tech and Chery entered into a formal cooperation agreement in January 2024 to jointly develop and scale solid-state battery technology. The current generation of Gotion’s tested solid-state cells reportedly achieves 350 Wh/kg and 70 Ah capacity—enough to support an EV range close to 1,000 km, though still short of the longer-term performance goal.

The prototype vehicle suggests integration of this intermediate battery technology for testing and evaluation. Details regarding cell chemistry, form factor, or thermal management have not been disclosed, and it remains unclear whether the unit spotted reflects an operational pack or a display prototype.

Chery previously claimed it was building the world’s first GWh-level solid-state battery production line in Wuhu, intended to support industrial-scale manufacturing. The Exlantix ET field sighting could indicate alignment between vehicle development and that factory timeline.

Solid-state batteries remain a contested space in EV tech, with high energy density and non-flammable electrolytes offering advantages in range and safety. However, material costs, production scalability, and long-term durability remain barriers to commercialization. Chery and Gotion’s roadmap positions them among the few Chinese players targeting early industrial deployment with real-vehicle applications.

While this test vehicle does not confirm readiness for consumer delivery, it marks visible momentum in bringing solid-state systems out of the lab and into on-road evaluation. Commercial rollout remains projected for 2027.