Yibin, Sichuan Province, China, hosted the 2026 World Power Battery Conference, bringing together industry leaders, technology companies, researchers and international participants to discuss the future of the global power battery sector. The conference opened on September 3 and focused on technological innovation, industrial development and international cooperation in the battery industry. Key areas discussed at the event included power battery technologies, energy storage, innovative applications and battery recycling.
The event highlighted the growing role of advanced battery technologies in electric mobility and the wider energy transition. Discussions covered developments across the power battery value chain, along with opportunities to expand the use of batteries in different applications. The conference also examined ways to strengthen cooperation between companies and markets as the global battery industry continues to develop.
Battery safety was another important area of discussion during the conference. Industry experts highlighted the importance of improving safety throughout the battery lifecycle, from design and manufacturing to use and management. China’s mandatory electric vehicle traction battery safety standard, which took effect on July 1, was also referenced in discussions around stronger battery safety requirements.
Artificial intelligence and intelligent manufacturing also featured prominently at the event. Discussions explored how AI could support battery design, manufacturing and management, while intelligent technologies are increasingly being integrated into industrial operations. The conference also examined the potential connection between power batteries and emerging areas such as embodied intelligence and advanced robotics.
Alongside the conference, the 2026 Power Battery Application Ecosystem Exhibition showcased technologies and products from across the industry. More than 200 companies participated in the exhibition, which covered over 50,000 square metres. Dedicated areas focused on power batteries and materials, energy storage, international exhibitors, embodied intelligence, the low-altitude economy and new energy vehicles.
Spain served as the Guest Country of Honor at this year’s conference, adding an international dimension to the event and highlighting opportunities for China-Spain industrial cooperation. The World Power Battery Conference was launched in Yibin in 2022, and the 2026 edition marked the fifth year the city has hosted the event. Yibin has also developed a major power battery industry cluster, with capabilities spanning the battery supply chain from materials and manufacturing to battery-pack assembly and recycling.
