Trivia Cafe
59

What company at CES 2026 unveiled a solid-state battery capable of charging an EV in just 5 minutes?

Learn More

Donut Lab - current events illustration
Donut Lab — current events

At CES 2026, the company Donut Lab made headlines by unveiling a groundbreaking solid-state battery technology capable of fully charging an electric vehicle in just five minutes. This announcement generated significant buzz, as such rapid charging speeds could effectively eliminate range anxiety and make electric vehicles as convenient to refuel as gasoline-powered cars, representing a major leap forward for EV adoption.

Donut Lab's innovative all-solid-state battery boasts an impressive energy density of 400 watt-hours per kilogram, which is nearly double that of many conventional lithium-ion batteries currently on the market. Beyond its ultra-fast charging capability, the company claims the battery can endure up to 100,000 full charge cycles without degradation, a substantial improvement over the typical 3,000 to 5,000 cycles for existing EV batteries. Furthermore, unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries that often require charging only to 80% to preserve longevity, Donut Lab's solid-state cell can be charged to 100% repeatedly without ill effects.

The technology also demonstrates remarkable performance across extreme temperatures, reportedly maintaining over 99% of its capacity in conditions ranging from a frigid -22 degrees Fahrenheit to a scorching 212 degrees Fahrenheit. This broad thermal tolerance addresses another common challenge for electric vehicles, as cold weather can significantly impact battery range and performance. While initial skepticism surrounded such ambitious claims, Donut Lab has begun releasing independent test results, with some reports confirming fast-charging capabilities, such as 0-80% in 4.5 minutes, and stable operation at high temperatures.

Donut Lab's solid-state battery is not merely a concept; it is already slated for real-world application. Verge Motorcycles announced that its 2026 models, including the TS Pro and Ultra, will be the first production vehicles to feature Donut Lab's all-solid-state battery, with deliveries expected in the first quarter of 2026. This immediate integration into consumer products distinguishes Donut Lab's announcement from many other battery breakthroughs, positioning it as a potentially transformative force in the electric vehicle industry.