CATL has established itself as the world’s largest battery producer, driven by its advancements in lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery cells. These cells offer lower costs compared to nickel-rich batteries and have gained popularity in entry-level EVs due to improved energy density while remaining cost-effective. Building on this success, CATL is now advancing sodium-ion battery technology.
The company unveiled its Naxtra sodium-ion battery cells, which achieve an energy density of 175 Wh per kg, comparable to high-end LFP cells. Sodium-ion cells promise lower production costs and enhanced performance, including faster charging and extended lifecycles. CATL demonstrated the cells’ safety through rigorous tests, such as drilling and cutting a cell, with no thermal incidents reported.
Li Wei, CATL’s Chief Technology Officer, stated: “The next-gen sodium cells could help further lower the cost of electric vehicles without compromising performance, and while increasing safety.” The Naxtra cells are expected to support the affordability and reliability of EVs.
In addition to the sodium-ion cells, CATL introduced its next-generation Shenxing LFP battery cells, which offer remarkable charging speeds. The cells can sustain charging rates of approximately 1,000 kW, maintaining over 500 kW at more than 50% state of charge. CATL claims the Shenxing cells can add 300 miles (482 km) of range in about five minutes, depending on the EV model, rivaling the speed of refueling a gas vehicle.
Zhang Mei, CATL’s Head of EV Solutions, said: “The new cell is being described as capable of adding 300 miles of range in about 5 minutes – depending on the EV model.” CATL plans to integrate the Shenxing cells into 67 electric vehicle models by the end of 2025.
The unveiling follows a similar announcement by BYD, a key competitor, which also showcased high-speed charging technology. CATL’s advancements in both sodium-ion and LFP battery cells reinforce its leadership in developing cost-effective, high-performance solutions for the global EV market, contributing to the broader adoption of electric transportation.
