China's CATL launches new EV sodium battery

Chinese battery giant CATL unveiled a new sodium-ion battery on Monday, claiming it will transform the electric vehicle (EV) industry. The company, which produces over a third of all EV batteries globally, collaborates with major brands such as Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Volkswagen.

Sodium-ion batteries are considered a more affordable and, in some cases, safer alternative to lithium-ion batteries, which are prevalent in electronics and EVs but carry fire risks if damaged. "We will achieve mass production by the end of the year. It will restructure the whole industry," said CATL's Chief Marketing Officer Luo Jian at a news conference in Shanghai.

Production of sodium-ion batteries is set to begin in June, starting with small starter batteries for heavy goods vehicles under the Naxtra brand. This new battery is expected to enhance vehicle performance in cold weather, with larger batteries for electric and hybrid cars scheduled for production in December.

According to CATL CEO Robin Zeng, sodium-ion batteries are now ready for commercial-scale production, having "emerged from the labs." He anticipates that these batteries could capture half of the market currently dominated by lithium iron phosphate batteries. Although sodium-ion technology has existed for decades, it has historically underperformed compared to lithium-ion batteries. However, renewed interest has led to developments that eliminate the need for some expensive metals. CATL's Naxtra batteries promise a driving range of 500 kilometers (310 miles) for electric vehicles.

Shortly before the Shanghai Motor Show, CATL also introduced the second generation of its Shenxing battery, which will be installed in 67 cars this year from Chinese brands like Zeekr, Nio, and Avatr. This fast-charging battery offers an impressive 800-kilometer range, with 520 kilometers recoverable in just five minutes of charging—outpacing its Chinese competitor BYD.

CATL is also focusing on developing battery exchange systems, in partnership with Nio, to facilitate the adoption of its new technologies. However, heavy tariffs imposed by former US President Donald Trump could raise the costs of components and vehicles. CATL executives declined to comment on these tariffs.

The US Defense Department has included CATL on a list of companies allegedly linked to the Chinese military, a claim the company denies. At the Shanghai Motor Show, CATL also showcased its new dual battery system for EVs. Technical Director Gao Huan stated that this dual system enhances safety, particularly for self-driving cars, by preventing failure if one of the batteries malfunctions. A production date for these dual batteries, which have been in development for five years, has not yet been announced, though one car manufacturer is already integrating the system into its autonomous vehicle design.