
Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL), the world’s largest electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturer, has unveiled its next-generation battery lineup in a move that signals a major leap forward for the EV industry. At its 'Tech Day' event held in Shanghai, CATL introduced its upgraded Shenxing battery, which can deliver a range of 520 kilometers with just a 5-minute charge. This breakthrough is expected to appeal strongly to hesitant EV adopters concerned about range and charging times.
The new battery is set to intensify competition in the EV sector, directly challenging companies like BYD. CATL emphasized that the Shenxing battery is not only fast-charging but also highly reliable and durable. Already a supplier to global giants like Tesla and Ford, CATL maintains a dominant 38.2% share of the global EV battery market, solidifying its leadership in battery innovation.
At the same event, CATL also showcased its sodium-ion battery, branded as Naxtra, which the company claims can operate efficiently in extreme environments — including temperatures as low as -40°C and exposure to fire — without any degradation in performance. These batteries are more cost-effective and stable than lithium-based counterparts, making them a promising solution for both EVs and hybrid vehicles in the near future.
Further raising the bar, CATL introduced its dual-power battery technology, which can deliver a staggering 1,500 kilometers of range on a single charge by combining a super-fast charging cell with an auxiliary cell. The company also revealed its vision for applying battery technology to future modes of transport like eVTOLs (electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft). Concluding the event, CATL executives stressed that while the ongoing pricing wars may be unhealthy, a race for technological advancement is essential for the growth and evolution of the EV industry.