CATL Introduces 320-Mile EV Battery with Ultra-Fast Charging

China's Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL), the leading manufacturer of electric vehicle batteries globally, has introduced an enhanced battery that it claims offers a longer range compared to BYD's advanced technology.

Both technology powerhouses now claim to possess batteries that can charge electric vehicles in just five minutes. However, CATL raised the stakes by revealing that its new Shenxing battery offers a range of 320 miles, roughly 70 miles greater than BYD’s indicated range of 250 miles. In contrast, Tesla’s Superchargers fall short, providing only 200 miles of range with a 15-minute charging session.

CATL's breakthrough was revealed only a month after BYD astonished the EV sector with its own landmark release. The competing technologies highlight the fierce rivalry occurring in China's EV industry, which is driving continuous innovation at affordable prices.

The enhanced Shenxing, featuring a complete battery range of 500 miles, was introduced with a new sodium-ion battery, Naxtra, which CATL claimed is a cheaper and safer option compared to lithium and lead-acid batteries.

Gao claimed that the new Shenxing battery would support over 67 electric vehicle models this year, but did not specify which models. He mentioned that the battery works effectively in very cold conditions, providing an 80% charge from 5% in merely 15 minutes, even at temperatures as low as 14 degrees (-10 degrees Celsius).

Concerning the Naxtra battery, due to the relatively plentiful supply of sodium, it offers potential for reduced manufacturing expenses. The company highlighted the upgraded safety and stability of the model, stating it can function in severe weather and is less prone than conventional lithium batteries to explosion and fire hazards following accidents.

Gao mentioned that Naxtra batteries can provide a distance of up to 310 miles on one charge, which is less than Shenxing’s, and are anticipated to begin mass production by year’s end.