New CATL electric car batteries to add 400km range in 10min

Chinese-based global EV battery manufacturer CATL, which supplies car-makers such as Tesla, Volkswagen, Ford and BMW, has unveiled its next-generation Shenxing lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) batteries that support ultra-fast charging capability and can add a claimed 400km of range in just 10 minutes.

Announcing that mass production would begin late this year ahead of first deliveries in the first quarter of 2024, CATL said the secret behind the Shenxing batteries’ capabilities is a new graphite anode, revised electrolyte formulation and thinner and safer separator, with enhanced ion transport.

It all adds up to a battery that produces less heat when operating or when it’s being charged.

Developed to fit any type of vehicle, CATL’s new Shenxing battery will be first used by Chinese brand Avatr, which is a joint venture between CATL, Changan and Huawei.

As well as delivering higher charging performance, the LFP chemistry means the new Shenxing is far cheaper to produce than other lithium-ion batteries.

In the past, LFP batteries have struggled in cold climates, but CATL says its next-generation powerpack can be charged to 80 per cent in temperatures as low as minus-10 degrees Celsius.

Back in April, CATL announced that it was also developing new sodium-ion batteries that will be introduced from the fourth quarter of 2024.

Despite offering far lower energy density than the latest LFP chemistry, the sodium-ion batteries perform well in cold weather and should be among the cheapest batteries ever produced as they don’t need lithium in their production.

The sodium-ion cells are said to be destined for cheap city EVs of the near future.

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