Donut Lab Solid-State Battery Claims Investigated After Independent Tests Raise Doubts
Finnish startup Donut Lab's 'miracle' solid-state battery claims are under scrutiny following independent tests. Investigations suggest the technology uses conventional lithium-ion chemistry, contrary to the company's assertions. Donut Lab raised $25 million based on these claims, with authorities reportedly investigating the situation.
Key points
- Finnish startup Donut Lab is under investigation after independent tests indicated its claimed solid-state battery uses lithium-ion chemistry.
- The company had raised $25 million in investments and achieved a $1.25 billion valuation based on its purported battery technology.
- Claims included a 400 Wh/kg energy density, 100,000-cycle lifespan, and 5-minute charging capabilities.
- YouTube channel Ziroth, collaborating with over 20 battery experts, concluded the battery was a repacked lithium-ion product.
- Authorities are reportedly investigating the matter, with comparisons drawn to the "Theranos of the battery industry."
Finnish startup Donut Lab faces significant questions regarding its 'miracle' solid-state battery technology. Recent independent investigations, including analysis by the Ziroth YouTube channel and over 20 battery experts, suggest the company's product actually utilizes conventional lithium-ion chemistry rather than the advanced solid-state design it advertised.
Donut Lab had garnered substantial investment, raising $25 million and achieving a valuation of $1.25 billion, based on claims of a revolutionary battery. These assertions included an impressive 400 Wh/kg energy density, a lifespan of 100,000 cycles, and the ability to charge in just five minutes. CEO Marko Lehtimäki had promoted the technology at CES 2026, stating it would "transform the industry."
However, prior to the recent independent tests, cracks had already appeared in Donut Lab's narrative. A whistleblower from a partner company reportedly alleged that the battery specifications presented at CES 2026 were inaccurate. Following the release of the investigative findings, the situation has escalated, with reports indicating that authorities are now looking into the matter, drawing parallels to the notorious Theranos case.
Sources
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