The **Hyundai** group is continuing its research on fully solid batteries, both on its own and with partners. Manfred Harrer, the group's head of research and development, estimated in September that this technology could be used in cars produced in small numbers within five years. However, the widespread adoption of solid batteries faces challenges, particularly the high cost of materials. Meanwhile, the batteries used in current electric vehicles are improving in terms of charging speed and range without needing to change their basic design. Some are questioning whether it's still worth investing in solid batteries, which are more complex to manufacture. For Manfred Harrer, the answer is yes. When asked by InsideEVs, he emphasized that **Hyundai** must stay in the race for solid battery development. He envisions limited-production cars that showcase this technology arriving within five years, but no specific models or commercialization dates have been announced. The key difference between solid batteries and the current lithium-ion batteries used in most electric vehicles lies in the electrolyte. In traditional batteries, a liquid electrolyte allows ions to move within the cell, while in a fully solid battery, a solid material replaces the liquid. This change could potentially lead to smaller battery sizes, faster charging, and longer driving ranges. However, these benefits have yet to be proven at the scale needed for mass production in the automotive industry. Some companies are moving quickly in this area. For example, **BYD**, a major Chinese automaker, recently announced plans to produce electric vehicles with solid batteries, though details remain limited. Despite the potential benefits, Manfred Harrer is cautious about the large-scale adoption of solid batteries. He believes the cost of raw materials will remain high for years and does not expect this issue to be resolved within five years. As a result, he sees a big difference between demonstrating the technology in a limited-production car and making it affordable for a standard model. **Hyundai** is working on this technology both internally and with partners, including **Solid Power**, a U.S. company specializing in solid-state battery development. In 2024, **Hyundai** completed a research unit dedicated to next-generation batteries, including fully solid batteries, to study their manufacturing processes. For now, **France** can expect no immediate changes in the availability of solid battery vehicles. **Hyundai**'s strategy is to first prove that solid batteries can work in limited-production cars, then figure out how to manufacture them at a price that makes sense for the market. The company is focused on mastering the technology and its supply chain if it becomes viable in the future.