KATHMANDU: Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) will begin mass production of its next-generation sodium-ion battery in 2026, according to company reports.
The battery can deliver a driving range of over 500 kilometers on a single charge. It has an energy density of 175 Wh/kg, and limited supply is expected to start by the end of 2025.
According to CATL, the sodium-ion technology provides improved low-temperature performance, enhanced safety, and a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. It operates efficiently in temperatures ranging from -40°C to 70°C and is suitable for a wide range of applications, including cars passenger, commercial vehicles, and heavy-duty trucks.
The company said the batteries are compatible with existing standard modules and battery swap systems, allowing manufacturers to adopt the new technology without major design changes.
It recently became the first sodium-ion battery to meet China’s new GB 38031-2025 national safety standard for electric vehicle power batteries.
CATL stated that the milestone marks a major step toward large-scale application of sodium-ion batteries, positioning them as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to lithium-ion technology.
Founded in 2011, CATL is the world’s largest EV battery manufacturer, holding about 38 percent of the global market share in 2024. The company retained its top position in early 2025 for the eighth consecutive year.
CATL supplies batteries to major global automakers including Tesla, Volkswagen, BMW, Ford, Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, and General Motors. It also works with commercial vehicle producers such as Foton, Geely, Dongfeng, and JAC, as well as European brands like Audi, Bosch, Porsche, and Stellantis.
