CATL unveils breakthrough 5‑minute EV charge battery
The Chinese company CATL, the world's largest supplier of batteries for electric vehicles, is boasting a new revolutionary technology that promises a range of 323 miles after just five minutes of charging. This achievement surpasses a recently presented solution by another Chinese company, BYD.
On Monday, CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Company Ltd.) unveiled a set of new technologies, including the second-generation Shenxing battery. According to information published by the company, the new battery is expected to achieve a range of 323 miles after just five minutes of charging, which is only slightly more time than refueling a gasoline vehicle.
This accomplishment appears to outshine the technology presented last month by BYD, a Tesla competitor. At that time, BYD showcased a charging system promising approximately 249 miles of range after a 5-minute charge.
Some analysts expressed skepticism about BYD's claims, citing potential technical hurdles and high costs. However, if this technology proves reliable and can be applied on a larger scale, it could help the electric vehicle industry alleviate consumer concerns about range and the convenience of using such cars.
Advantage over Western competitors
If the reports are confirmed, it will mean that the Chinese company CATL has outpaced its Western rivals in the category of electric vehicle charging speed. The latest Tesla superchargers can add up to 168 miles of range in 15 minutes, while Mercedes-Benz Group recently reported that one of its batteries can provide a range of up to 202 miles in 10 minutes.
According to CATL, Shenxing is also the world's first lithium-iron-phosphate battery with a 497-mile range, allowing car charging at low temperatures of 14°F to previously unheard-of levels.
On Monday, CATL also unveiled new batteries from the Naxtra series, which the company claims to be the "world's first mass-produced sodium-ion batteries," reducing the electric vehicle industry's dependence on lithium.
The Chinese assert that sodium-ion batteries can help reduce maintenance costs and are capable of operating in extreme temperatures from -40°F to +158°F. One of the Naxtra batteries has been specially designed for trucks, offering an expected lifespan of over eight years while simultaneously reducing life cycle costs and increasing efficiency compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.
Shares of CATL listed on the Shenzhen stock exchange rose by about 1 percent on Tuesday.
