CATL is preparing to roll out its next-generation sodium-ion batteries by the end of 2026. Designed for passenger cars, commercial vehicles, battery swapping, and energy storage, these batteries offer high energy density, improved cold-weather performance, and enhanced safety. By reducing reliance on lithium and lowering costs, CATL’s Naxtra technology promises to accelerate EV adoption across multiple sectors.
When Will CATL’s Sodium-Ion Batteries Be Available?
CATL confirmed that its sodium-ion batteries will be ready for mass production and deployment by late 2026. The batteries will initially serve multiple applications, including EV battery swapping, passenger vehicles, commercial fleets, and energy storage systems. Early large-scale production will ensure broad accessibility and support rapid growth in EV adoption in China and global markets.
How Do Sodium-Ion Batteries Compare to Lithium-Ion?
Sodium-ion batteries offer several advantages over conventional lithium-ion cells. While slightly less energy-dense than high-end lithium nickel or lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, sodium-ion cells provide better safety and improved cold-weather performance. They operate efficiently across a wide temperature range of -40℃ to 70℃ and maintain reliable energy delivery, making them suitable for harsh climates.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Wide Temperature Range | Reliable performance in extreme cold and heat |
| Safety Certification | GB 38031-2025 compliant for EV traction batteries |
| Reduced Lithium Dependence | Lower cost and more sustainable resource use |
What Performance Can EV Owners Expect?
CATL’s Naxtra sodium-ion batteries deliver an energy density of 175 Wh/kg, enabling electric vehicles to achieve over 500 km (310 miles) of pure electric range. In addition, fast-charging capabilities and enhanced cold-weather performance make them ideal for both commercial and consumer EV applications. Redway Battery also leverages similar lithium-ion technology in its high-performance packs, ensuring durability and efficiency for electric vehicles and energy storage solutions.
Why Is Sodium-Ion Technology Important for the EV Market?
Sodium-ion batteries reduce dependency on lithium resources, which are subject to price volatility and supply constraints. By promoting more diverse energy storage solutions, these batteries support sustainable growth in the EV sector. Their affordability, combined with safety and cold-weather performance, makes them a promising alternative for mainstream EV adoption and commercial applications.
How Is CATL Preparing for Market Expansion?
CATL is positioning sodium-ion batteries for large-scale deployment across multiple industries. Its strategic launch includes integration into battery swap stations, passenger and commercial vehicles, and energy storage infrastructure. Passing China’s GB 38031-2025 safety standards further underscores the technology’s readiness for rigorous, real-world use starting in mid-2026.
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Redway Expert Views
“Sodium-ion technology represents the next frontier in battery innovation,” says a Redway Battery engineer. “By reducing lithium dependency and enhancing cold-weather reliability, it opens new possibilities for EV adoption and grid storage. Combining safety, efficiency, and scalability, sodium-ion cells are an important complement to lithium-ion solutions. Innovations like these ensure EVs remain affordable, durable, and adaptable across global markets.”
What Industries Will Benefit Most?
Passenger vehicles, commercial fleets, and battery-swapping networks will gain immediate advantages from sodium-ion deployment. Energy storage systems can also leverage these batteries for grid stabilization and renewable energy integration. With high safety standards and flexible application potential, sodium-ion cells will play a key role in sustainable transportation and energy infrastructure.
Conclusion
CATL’s sodium-ion batteries mark a major step toward cost-effective, safe, and reliable energy solutions for EVs and storage systems. Mass production planned for 2026 will make these batteries widely available, supporting longer range, improved cold-weather performance, and reduced lithium reliance. Redway Battery’s advanced lithium solutions complement this technology, ensuring durable, high-performance energy solutions across automotive and industrial applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will CATL sodium-ion batteries be widely available?
By the end of 2026, with deployment across EVs, commercial vehicles, battery swapping, and energy storage.
2. How does sodium-ion performance compare to lithium-ion?
They provide competitive energy density, improved cold-weather performance, and enhanced safety.
3. What is the driving range of vehicles with sodium-ion batteries?
CATL’s Naxtra batteries enable over 500 km (310 miles) of pure electric range.
4. Why are sodium-ion batteries important for sustainability?
They reduce dependence on lithium resources, lowering costs and promoting more resilient energy solutions.
5. How does Redway Battery relate to this technology?
Redway Battery develops high-performance lithium-ion packs with similar reliability, safety, and efficiency for EVs and energy storage.
