Next-generation solid-state battery pack co-developed by Welion & BASF unveiled at Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition

• BASF’s advanced material solutions meet GB 38031 standards
• Next-generation pack comes with significant weight reduction, improved thermal runaway protection and reinforced strength

Guangzhou, China – December 9, 2025 – A next-generation solid-state battery pack co-developed by Welion New Energy Technology (Welion) and BASF was unveiled at the 23rd Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition. The battery pack incorporates innovative material solutions from BASF, including engineering plastics (Ultramid^®, Ultradur^®) and polyurethanes (Elastolit^®, Elastoflex^®, Elastan^®, and Elastocoat^®), which contribute to vehicle weight reduction, thermal management, and enhanced safety performance in electric vehicles (EVs).

BASF’s advanced materials elevate battery safety and performance. The flame-retardant cell holder delivers exceptional electrical insulation and meets stringent standards. Fire-resistant compounds in extruded high-voltage busbars ensure superior metal adhesion and flow versus polyamide 12 (PA12). Elastolit foaming potting adhesive and Elastocoat fire-protection coatings further reinforce thermal runaway resistance. Together, BASF’s material solutions safeguard against thermal runaway, mechanical impact, overcharging, and short-circuit risks, engineered under China national GB 38031 standard, and aligning with global battery standards.

“In the highly competitive EV battery market, innovation is a key differentiator. Solid-state batteries are the future of power and energy storage - delivering superior efficiency and safety. By combining BASF’s advanced materials with Welion’s R&D expertise, we’ve co-developed a next-generation solid-state battery pack that strengthens competitiveness and drives sustainable growth for the new energy vehicle industry,” said Huigen Yu, Chairman, Welion. “By eliminating the hazards of flammable liquid electrolytes, the solid-state design delivers exceptional thermal stability. It also tackles key challenges in charging speed and driving range - accelerating the mainstream adoption of solid-state batteries and bringing consumers safer, smarter, and more reliable electric vehicles.”

Reducing vehicle weight is critical for maximizing EV efficiency. BASF's Ultramid PA side cooling manifold and Elastoflex PU Stray Transfer Molding (STM) battery cover cut weight by about 50% compared to metal alternatives. Elastan low-density structural adhesive optimizes structural integrity - meeting the dual demands of safety and lightweighting. Additional polyurethane structural filling and polyurea coatings further increase battery impact strength. 

“We constantly advance our portfolio with our material innovation expertise to meet dynamic regulatory demands and support our customers and automotive OEMs in their green transformation,” said Andy Postlethwaite, Senior Vice President, Performance Materials Asia Pacific, BASF.

About BASF

At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. Our ambition: We want to be the preferred chemical company to enable our customers’ green transformation. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Around 112,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises, as core businesses, the segments Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, and Nutrition & Care; our standalone businesses are bundled in the segments Surface Technologies and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of €65.3 billion in 2024. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the United States. Further information at www.basf.com.

About BASF’s Performance Materials division 

BASF’s Performance Materials division leads the transformation of the plastics industry by merging sustainability with a competitive edge. Our broad material competencies and product portfolio, backed by deep industry knowledge and understanding, make us the ideal one-stop-shop. With dedicated material-focused teams and strong R&D power, we constantly deliver industry-leading technologies and expertise to our customers worldwide. Our global network ensures a competitive advantage through superior innovations, regional proximity, and tailor-made solutions that meet local market demands. We are committed to enhancing performance and efficiency across sectors such as automotive, consumer goods, industrial applications, and construction. With BASF, our partners embark on #OurPlasticsJourney towards a more circular and sustainable future. In 2024, the Performance Materials division achieved global sales of €6.8 billion. Join #OurPlasticsJourney on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/basf-performance-materials/ and in our newsletter https://plastics-rubber.basf.com/global/en/performance_polymers/plastics-journey-newsletter