Contemporary Amperex Technology Co Limited (CATL) has confirmed that it will begin large-scale production of its next-generation sodium-ion batteries next year. The new cells are designed to deliver a driving range of around 500 kilometres while being cheaper to manufacture and less damaging to the environment.

Unlike conventional lithium-based batteries, the new technology relies on sodium, an abundant material that is easier to extract. CATL has not yet disclosed which car manufacturer will be the first to adopt the batteries.

The company highlights several advantages of the sodium-ion technology. Production costs are lower, the carbon footprint is reduced, and the batteries are classified as more environmentally friendly. They are also capable of both fast charging and rapid discharging, while offering stable performance in a wide range of conditions. Importantly, sodium-ion batteries are considered safer than current mainstream chemistries.

There is, however, a trade-off. With an energy density of 175Wh/kg, sodium-ion cells lag behind lithium-iron phosphate in terms of power density. Even so, CATL argues that the benefits outweigh this limitation, particularly for smaller and more affordable electric vehicles where high energy density is less critical.

CATL expects sodium-ion batteries to play a major role in the industry, predicting that they could eventually be used in over 40 per cent of passenger vehicles. Their affordability and resilience in colder climates make them an attractive option for manufacturers looking to bring lower-cost EVs to market. Despite mass production beginning in 2026, CATL believes the first cars equipped with sodium-ion packs will not appear until 2027.

In addition to passenger vehicles, CATL is developing sodium-ion batteries for other applications. These include 24-volt starter batteries for heavy-duty trucks. The batteries are engineered to operate reliably in temperatures ranging from minus 40°C to 70°C, making them suitable for diverse environments.

While solid-state batteries are often described as the long-term solution for EVs, promising ultra-fast charging and higher capacities, CATL sees sodium-ion as a key step towards mass adoption. By reducing costs, improving safety, and lowering environmental impact, sodium-ion batteries could help manufacturers finally offer electric vehicles at prices well below their petrol-powered counterparts.