On Wednesday, August 26th, 2026, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) approved a Chinese-proposed international standard for automotive solid-state batteries as a new work item. This marks the first global standard of its kind for advanced power systems and represents China’s latest effort to influence emerging industry regulations.

The proposal, led by China with contributions from technical experts in France, Japan, South Korea, and other countries, outlines application guidelines, testing items, and conditions for rechargeable lithium-ion solid-state batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs). According to an official statement by China’s State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR), the framework will draw on domestic research and development benchmarks to standardize testing specifications for solid-state batteries, which are widely regarded as the next frontier in EV power systems.

While most EVs currently use liquid-electrolyte lithium-ion batteries, solid-state alternatives are beginning to see early, limited commercialization. Their enhanced stability and performance across major temperature ranges also position them as promising power sources for emerging sectors such as humanoid robots, drones, and electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft.

The China-led proposal was announced by SAMR amid intensifying global competition in advanced technologies, where major economies increasingly leverage standard-setting to secure long-term industrial influence. A veteran Chinese researcher on international standardization, speaking anonymously, noted that the new standard would make it easier for Chinese products to meet overseas market requirements with minimal changes in parameters or production processes, effectively positioning China to set benchmarks followed by others.

Sources