On Monday, China’s CATL, the world’s largest supplier of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, unveiled a range of new products, including a groundbreaking superfast charging battery that the company claims sets a new global record. The second-generation Shenxing battery can add up to 520 km (323 miles) of driving range in just five minutes of charging, a time frame that is comparable to refueling a gasoline vehicle. This advancement places CATL’s charging technology ahead of other players in the industry, including the Chinese EV manufacturer BYD, which last month introduced a charging system promising to add about 400 km in range within five minutes. Although some analysts were cautious about BYD’s claims due to potential technical challenges and high costs, CATL’s Shenxing battery could significantly ease consumer concerns about the range and convenience of electric vehicles.
With a range of up to 800 km, the Shenxing battery boasts a peak charging power of 1.3 megawatts and is designed to perform exceptionally well even in low temperatures, down to -10°C. This cutting-edge technology outpaces the charging capabilities of many Western competitors, such as Tesla, whose superchargers currently add up to 270 kilometers of range in 15 minutes, and Mercedes-Benz, whose batteries can recharge up to 325 kilometers in 10 minutes. If CATL’s claims hold true, the Shenxing battery could be a game-changer for the EV market, making long charging times a thing of the past.
In addition to the Shenxing battery, CATL also revealed its new Naxtra series of sodium-ion batteries. These batteries are designed to reduce the EV industry’s reliance on lithium, offering an alternative with lower maintenance costs and the ability to operate in extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to +70°C. The Naxtra series includes batteries for heavy-duty trucks, promising over eight years of service life with improved efficiency and reduced lifecycle costs compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.
CATL’s innovations come at a time when the company is preparing for a potential listing in Hong Kong, with reports suggesting the IPO could raise at least $5 billion, making it Hong Kong’s largest public offering since 2021. As CATL’s shares traded up by 1% on Tuesday, the company’s technological advancements solidify its position as a leader in the EV battery market.
READ MORE: