CATL's Na-Ion Batteries Certified in China, Promising 80% Charge in 15 Minutes and Mass EV Adoption by 2026

Revolutionary Na-Ion Batteries: CATL Achieves Certification, Paving the Way for Electric Vehicle Transformation

In a groundbreaking development poised to redefine the electric vehicle (EV) landscape, leading battery manufacturer CATL has announced a monumental achievement: its sodium-ion (Na-ion) battery, branded as Naxtra, has successfully passed China's stringent new national certification (GB 38031-2025). This pivotal moment marks the first time a Na-ion battery has met these national standards, signaling a significant leap towards widespread adoption. The company has set its sights on mass integration into EVs by 2026, a timeline that promises to accelerate the shift towards more accessible and efficient electric mobility.

Unlocking Unprecedented Charging Speeds

The standout feature of CATL's Naxtra battery lies in its remarkable fast-charging capabilities. Imagine replenishing your EV's battery to 80% in a mere 15 minutes – a reality that CATL first demonstrated with its initial Na-ion battery generation back in 2021. This astonishing speed is not a mere technological gimmick; it's rooted in the fundamental chemistry of sodium-ion cells. The intrinsic properties of these cells facilitate a swifter migration of ions between the cathode and anode compared to their lithium-ion counterparts and other established electrochemical technologies. This efficiency translates directly into dramatically reduced charging times, a critical factor in alleviating range anxiety and enhancing the overall user experience for EV owners.

A Compelling Alternative in the Battery Market

CATL is confident that Na-ion batteries are not just an incremental improvement but a potential game-changer, estimating that they could eventually replace up to half of the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries currently dominating the market. The recent certification under the "Safety Requirements for Traction Batteries for Electric Vehicles" standard in China is a resounding endorsement. It unequivocally confirms that Naxtra's impressive charging speeds are achieved without compromising safety, a paramount concern for consumers and manufacturers alike. The Chinese Center for Automotive Technology and Research conducted rigorous testing, including multiple rapid charging cycles, to validate the battery's structural integrity and thermal stability even under intense energy transfer conditions.

Performance in Extreme Conditions: A True Breakthrough

What truly sets Naxtra apart is its consistent performance across an astonishing temperature range, from a frigid -40°C to a scorching +70°C. This is a stark contrast to conventional lithium-ion batteries, which often experience a significant drop in charging speed in cold weather, necessitating preheating or reduced charging rates – ultimately extending the time drivers spend tethered to a charger. Naxtra's ability to maintain rapid charging in sub-zero temperatures is a monumental advantage, especially for regions with harsh winters and for those living in northern climates. This feature promises to eliminate a major bottleneck, making EV ownership a far more practical and less compromised option for a larger segment of the global population.

Forging Partnerships for a Connected Future

The road to widespread adoption is already being paved through strategic collaborations. CATL has confirmed that its Na-ion batteries will be integrated into the upcoming premium EVs from Li Auto, a prominent Chinese automotive company. This partnership signifies a crucial step towards mass-produced EVs equipped with this cutting-edge fast-charging technology. Furthermore, the Naxtra battery boasts compatibility with CATL's Choco-Swap platform, an innovative system designed for rapid battery swapping. This alternative to conventional charging allows for a complete battery exchange in under five minutes, offering EV owners the ultimate convenience – a quick pit stop akin to refueling a traditional gasoline vehicle, providing an estimated 200 km of range in just 5 minutes of "charging" (swapping).

This development echoes the efforts of other industry giants. SAIC, GM, and CATL have themselves been collaborating on batteries offering an impressive 6C charging rate, capable of delivering 200 km of range in a mere 5 minutes of charging. The confluence of these advancements paints a vivid picture of a future where EV charging is no longer a chore but a swift, seamless experience.