Chinese scientists have engineered a new lithium battery that maintains over 85% of its capacity after eight hours in extreme cold (-34°C), a significant leap forward in energy storage for harsh environments. This development, led by the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics (CAS), directly addresses the performance limitations of conventional lithium-ion batteries in subzero conditions.
Core Technology: Liquid-Solid Architecture
The breakthrough hinges on a liquid-solid (semi-solid-state) electrolyte system paired with an AI-powered power management system. Conventional lithium-ion batteries suffer from drastic capacity drops and potential failure below -20°C due to reduced ion mobility. The new design stabilizes energy output even in extreme cold by combining a low-temperature electrolyte with a functional liquid-solid separator. This mitigates the risk of complete shutdown, ensuring reliable power delivery.
Real-World Validation: Drones and Robotics
The technology has already been validated in industrial applications:
- Drone flights: The battery powered drones during inspection, logistics, and emergency communication tests without requiring external insulation.
- Robotics Simulations: The battery performed reliably in simulations of robotics operations designed for high-altitude or cold-season environments.
The plug-and-play compatibility means the battery can be deployed in existing systems without additional thermal modifications.
Implications for Electric Vehicles
While currently focused on industrial equipment, this technology has major implications for electric vehicles (EVs) in cold climates. Traditional EV packs can lose 50-80% of their capacity below -20°C, severely limiting range and reliability. Maintaining 85% capacity at -34°C would significantly improve EV performance in northern regions and high-latitude markets. However, scaling the technology for multi-hundred-kWh EV packs requires further testing and integration with vehicle thermal management systems.
Strategic Context: China’s Battery Leadership
This research reinforces China’s position as a leader in advanced battery systems. The technology is relevant to a growing range of applications, including consumer electronics, logistics drones, and outdoor equipment. The project is still in the demonstration phase, but future development will focus on scaling for broader industrial and automotive use.
This breakthrough isn’t just about cold resistance: it’s about expanding the operational envelope of energy storage, making electric technologies viable in previously inaccessible environments.
This advancement offers a clear pathway toward more reliable and efficient power solutions in extreme conditions, positioning China at the forefront of cold-climate energy storage technology.
Updated: 11/02/2026 21:50 China time
