CATL, a leading Chinese electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturer, recently announced its development of a second generation of sodium-ion batteries. These new batteries are expected to offer performance characteristics similar to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries but at a lower cost. The company’s first-generation sodium-ion batteries, introduced in 2021, have impressed with high energy density, fast charging capability, and good thermal stability, even performing well in temperatures as low as -20 °C. With an energy density of 160 Wh/kg and the ability to charge to over 80% in just 15 minutes, these batteries have been well-received in the market.
During an investor relations event, CATL highlighted the potential cost advantage of sodium-ion batteries over LFP batteries once they achieve large-scale adoption. The company also shared that its Shenxing and Qilin batteries are projected to make up 60-70% of total LFP and nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) battery shipments in 2025, a significant increase from the previous year. Furthermore, CATL’s Freevoy hybrid vehicle battery has already been integrated into more than 30 vehicle models since its recent launch.
To support its growth and meet increasing demand, CATL is expanding its battery production capacity in various locations, including cities in China such as Ningde, Jining, Luoyang, and Beijing. The company also has expansion plans in Germany, Hungary, and Spain through a joint venture with Stellantis, as well as a battery supply chain project in Indonesia.
Overall, CATL’s focus on innovation and expansion reflects its commitment to providing high-quality, cost-effective battery solutions for the rapidly growing EV market. With the development of second-generation sodium-ion batteries and continued investments in production capacity, CATL is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of the automotive industry.
