Changan Automobile teams up with CATL to deploy sodium-ion battery cars in 2026 · TechNode

Changan Automobile and CATL Join Forces to Revolutionize EV Batteries with Sodium-Ion Technology

In a bold move that could reshape the future of electric mobility, Changan Automobile has announced a strategic partnership with CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited) to integrate sodium-ion battery technology into its upcoming passenger vehicle lineup. The announcement, made on Thursday, signals a major leap forward in battery innovation, promising to deliver longer range, faster charging, and more sustainable energy solutions for electric vehicles.

According to the official statement, Changan plans to roll out multiple passenger models equipped with CATL’s cutting-edge sodium-ion batteries by 2026. This collaboration is set to accelerate the adoption of next-generation battery technology, offering a compelling alternative to traditional lithium-ion cells.

CATL, a global leader in battery manufacturing, revealed that its sodium-ion cells boast an energy density of 175 Wh/kg. This performance metric translates into impressive real-world capabilities: pure electric vehicles powered by these batteries are expected to achieve a driving range of over 400 kilometers on a single charge. Moreover, CATL hinted at the possibility of future upgrades that could push the range to an astounding 600 kilometers, making sodium-ion batteries a serious contender in the EV market.

For range-extended hybrid models, the numbers are equally promising. These vehicles are projected to exceed 400 kilometers of range, offering flexibility and peace of mind for drivers who require both electric efficiency and extended travel capabilities.

But the innovation doesn’t stop at the battery cells themselves. CATL is also planning a massive infrastructure rollout, with 3,000 battery swap stations slated for deployment across more than 140 cities. This ambitious plan aims to create a seamless and convenient charging experience for EV owners, addressing one of the biggest pain points in electric vehicle adoption: charging infrastructure.

The partnership between Changan and CATL is not just about launching new vehicles; it’s about building a dual sodium-lithium battery technology ecosystem. By integrating both sodium-ion and lithium-ion solutions, the companies are positioning themselves at the forefront of battery diversity, ensuring that consumers have access to the most advanced and suitable energy storage options for their needs.

Sodium-ion batteries offer several advantages over their lithium-ion counterparts. Sodium is far more abundant and easier to source than lithium, which could lead to lower production costs and reduced environmental impact. Additionally, sodium-ion batteries are less prone to thermal runaway, enhancing safety—a critical factor for electric vehicles.

This collaboration comes at a time when the global automotive industry is undergoing a seismic shift towards electrification. With governments around the world setting ambitious targets for zero-emission vehicles, automakers are under pressure to innovate and deliver sustainable solutions. Changan and CATL’s partnership is a clear signal that they are ready to meet this challenge head-on.

Industry analysts are already buzzing about the potential impact of this technology. If successful, sodium-ion batteries could democratize electric mobility, making EVs more accessible to a broader range of consumers. The combination of longer range, faster charging, and lower costs could be the catalyst that propels the EV market into the mainstream.

As the automotive world eagerly awaits the arrival of Changan’s sodium-ion-powered vehicles in 2026, one thing is certain: the future of electric mobility just got a whole lot more exciting. With Changan and CATL leading the charge, the road ahead is paved with innovation, sustainability, and endless possibilities.

Tags: #Changan #CATL #SodiumIonBatteries #EVTechnology #ElectricVehicles #BatteryInnovation #SustainableMobility #FutureOfEVs #GreenTech #EVCharging #BatterySwapStations #AutomotiveNews #TechInnovation #CleanEnergy #EVRevolution

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