CATL's New Fast-Charging Electric Vehicle Batteries Provide 320 Miles in Just Five Minutes | Carscoops

      The leading electric vehicle battery manufacturer has introduced innovative technology featuring rapid charging, extended range, and improved performance in cold climates.

      CATL’s second-generation Shenxing batteries can increase range by 1.6 miles for every second of charging.

      These dual-power batteries are expected to deliver over 930 miles of driving range for electric vehicles.

      Sodium-ion batteries offer enhanced safety, greater resilience to low temperatures, and potential cost savings.

      Electric vehicles are progressing swiftly, and for those who remain doubtful, CATL has revealed substantial advancements in battery technology that are set to be integrated into upcoming production models. Key features include the next-gen Shenxing batteries that enable ultra-fast charging, a new dual-power battery system for electric vehicles, and sodium-ion batteries optimized for colder environments.

      **Fast-Charging: A Transformation for EVs**

      The fast-charging initiative is crucial for the future of electric vehicles, aiming to make charging stops as quick and seamless as traditional refueling. In this regard, CATL claims that its second-generation Shenxing batteries can provide 520 km (320 miles) of range with just five minutes of charging, which equates to 2.5 km (1.6 miles) per second.

      This fast-charging technology represents a major breakthrough for the future of EVs, moving us towards a scenario where charging an electric vehicle is as efficient as filling up a gasoline car. The second-generation Shenxing batteries from CATL are designed to achieve this goal, boasting the ability to deliver 520 km (320 miles) of range with merely five minutes of charging. In context, this is equivalent to 2.5 km (1.6 miles) of range added every second, comparable to the time it takes to refuel an average American car.

      The impressive range figure surpasses that of competitor BYD, whose batteries can add 400 km (249 miles) in just five minutes. For perspective, the first generation of CATL's Shenxing batteries, launched in 2023, could replenish 400 km (249 miles) in ten minutes.

      **Increased Range and Charging Efficiency, Even in Cold Weather**

      CATL's second-generation Shenxing batteries claim a total range of up to 800 km (497 miles) and can charge from 5% to 80% in a mere 15 minutes, even in temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F). While it's still unclear how many of the 67 new EV models launching in 2025 will feature these second-generation batteries, it's clear that this technology is on the horizon.

      **Dual-Power Batteries for Exceptional Range**

      Another fascinating advancement from CATL is the “Freevoy Dual Power Battery” technology. This design combines two battery packs, enabling an electric vehicle to achieve a range exceeding 1,500 km (932 miles), comparable to the best range-extending hybrids. This new configuration divides the battery into two separate energy zones with varying cell materials, similar to dual-engine systems in aircraft.

      The auxiliary battery functions as a range extender and does not contain graphite, leading to a smaller and less expensive production process. However, this comes with the downside of slower charging speeds and reduced charging cycles, as these auxiliary batteries activate only when the primary battery is depleted, meaning they won't be charged as frequently.

      CATL anticipates that this dual-power battery technology will enter production for electric vehicles within the next 2-3 years, although details on which automaker will be the first to implement it remain undisclosed.

      **Sodium-Ion Batteries: Performers in Cold Conditions**

      Lastly, CATL is also developing sodium-ion batteries, set to begin production in December 2025. These batteries have the potential to replace lead-acid batteries commonly found in many internal combustion engine vehicles and lithium iron phosphate batteries used in hybrids and electric vehicles. Their main benefit is superior performance in cold weather, making them particularly appealing for individuals in colder regions.

      The company claims that their tests indicate that sodium-ion batteries can endure extreme conditions—whether being punctured, drilled, or sliced in half—without catching fire or exploding. Safety is a key advantage, along with other benefits.

      These batteries also provide high energy density, offering over 200 km (124 miles) of range in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and a strong life cycle of 10,000 charges. Even at temperatures as low as -30°C (-22°F), these batteries can charge from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes and can operate normally at -40°C (-40°F).

      Furthermore, sodium-ion technology is expected to be more cost-efficient than traditional lithium-ion batteries as it evolves, potentially resulting in significant long-term savings.