CATL Announces 6-Minute Charging Time For Latest Battery

CATL has unveiled a significant breakthrough in battery technology with its third generation Shenxing Superfast Charging Battery, capable of charging from 10 to 98 percent in just six minutes. This development surpasses BYD’s recent record of nine minutes and marks a notable advancement in electric vehicle (EV) charging speeds. The nickel-cobalt-manganese battery offers an impressive range of 1,000 kilometres, while the more advanced Qilin Condensed Battery extends this to 1,500 kilometres, potentially setting a new standard for premium EVs. CATL also introduced a suite of other innovations, including the third generation Qilin Battery and a fully integrated supercharging and battery-swapping system, aiming to meet diverse mobility needs. The rapid charging capability is achieved through a focus on managing battery temperature, a critical factor in maintaining longevity and performance. CATL’s technology reduces heat generation, enhances thermal dissipation, and employs precise control mechanisms to prevent capacity loss, ensuring over 90 percent retention after 1,000 full charge cycles. The battery supports extreme fast charging rates, with a peak 15C charge and the ability to reach 35 percent state of charge in just one minute. Even in sub-zero conditions of -30°C, the battery can charge from 20 to 98 percent in approximately nine minutes, demonstrating robust performance in cold climates. The third generation Qilin Battery is designed specifically for premium long-range EVs, achieving a cell energy density of 280 Wh/kg while weighing just 625 kilograms. This represents a significant reduction in weight and volume compared to equivalent lithium iron phosphate (LFP) systems, contributing to improved vehicle efficiency and reduced energy consumption. CATL estimates that these advancements could lead to substantial electricity savings and carbon emission reductions on a large scale, alongside enhanced vehicle performance and safety features. Notably, the battery’s design incorporates thermal-electrical separation to prevent thermal runaway, further improving safety. CATL’s leadership emphasises the importance of rigorous scientific innovation and quality validation in driving industrial progress and global competitiveness. CEO Robin Zeng highlighted that China’s technological ascent relies not only on speed and scale but also on credible, high-quality innovation. The company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of battery technology reflects a strategic effort to maintain a competitive edge amid intense rivalry with BYD and other global players. These advancements may influence the broader EV market by accelerating the adoption of ultra-fast charging and longer-range batteries. Looking ahead, CATL’s new battery technologies could reshape expectations for EV performance, particularly in terms of charging convenience and vehicle range. The integration of superfast charging with battery swapping solutions suggests a flexible approach to addressing different consumer needs and infrastructure challenges. As CATL continues to refine its chemistries and manufacturing processes, the company is poised to play a pivotal role in the transition to electrified mobility, potentially setting benchmarks that competitors will strive to match.