Chinese battery giant CATL is shaking up the electric vehicle (EV) industry with two major announcements. The company has launched a new brand, Naxtra, for its sodium-ion batteries, which are expected to hit the market in December. CATL is also rolling out its second-generation fast-charging battery, Shenxing, designed to support longer driving ranges.
Sodium-Ion Batteries: A Potential Game-Changer
Naxtra batteries boast an energy density of 175 watt-hours per kilogram, comparable to current LFP batteries. Ouyang Chuying, CATL co-founder, believes sodium-ion batteries could become a more affordable alternative as technology and supply chains advance. “Sodium-ion batteries may have a price advantage,” he said. “They could replace up to half of LFP batteries in the market in the future.”
CATL pioneered sodium-ion batteries in 2021. These batteries offer a lower price point and reduced fire risk compared to widely used lithium-ion batteries. This makes them an attractive option for EVs and energy storage systems.
Fast-Charging Breakthrough
CATL’s second-generation Shenxing battery supports rapid charging, providing 520 km of driving range with just five minutes of charging. It can also charge to 80% in 15 minutes. Over 67 EV models are expected to use Shenxing batteries this year.
These developments are part of CATL’s strategy to stay ahead in the competitive Chinese EV market. Despite price wars, the company is committed to innovation and growth. With Naxtra and Shenxing, CATL is poised to shape the future of the EV industry.
Source: Reuters