The new CATL battery’s high performance could accelerate sodium-ion adoption worldwide, offering a viable alternative to lithium-ion batteries.
The new CATL battery’s high performance could accelerate sodium-ion adoption worldwide, offering a viable alternative to lithium-ion batteries.
Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) has unveiled a noticeable advancement with its sodium-ion battery, achieving an energy density of 175 Wh/kg and supporting over 500 kilometres of electric driving range.
The company plans to commence mass supply in 2026, contingent on customer schedules.
CATL highlights that sodium-ion batteries offer lower energy density compared to lithium-ion counterparts but excel in low-temperature performance, safety, and reduced carbon footprint.
These traits position the technology as ideal for expanding electric vehicle (EV) adoption in cold regions, enhancing global mobility reach and supporting eco-friendly transport solutions.
Collaboration with partners on sodium-ion passenger car batteries is progressing well, with CATL targeting supply readiness next year based on customer timelines.
The company’s earlier launch on April 21 of the world’s first mass-produced sodium-ion batteries, featuring the “Sodium New Power Battery” for cars and the “Sodium New 24V Integrated Starter Battery” for trucks, demonstrates its commitment. These batteries operate effectively between -40°C and 70°C.
The firm estimates that sodium-ion batteries could meet over 40% of domestic passenger vehicle demand, signaling strong commercial prospects.
CATL notes that its battery packs are compatible with standard No. 20 and No. 25 modules, including swap formats, allowing seamless integration across various vehicle platforms without major redesigns by manufacturers.
On September 5, CATL’s sodium-ion battery cleared China’s GB 38031-2025 “Safety Requirements for Power Batteries of Electric Vehicles” certification, becoming the first globally to meet this standard.
This milestone validates its safety across traction battery applications, addressing fire risks and thermal stability, which are critical for widespread EV acceptance.
By reducing reliance on scarce resources and enhancing safety, CATL’s innovation may reshape EV manufacturing, lower costs, and broaden market access, influencing global standards and sustainability efforts in the automotive sector.
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