As the global push for alternative battery technologies intensifies, Chinese cleantech leaders CATL, BYD, and Huawei are making significant strides in the development of sodium-ion batteries. These innovations could reshape the energy storage landscape, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional lithium-ion technology.
CATL: Second-Generation Sodium-Ion Batteries
On November 18, CATL revealed its second-generation sodium-ion battery at the World Young Scientists Summit. The new battery, expected to exceed 200 Wh/kg energy density, is slated for launch next year. This marks a notable improvement over the first generation, which offered 160 Wh/kg when introduced in 2021.
CATL has also unveiled its Freevoy hybrid battery pack, which integrates sodium-ion and lithium-ion cells. Designed for extended-range electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, Freevoy leverages sodium-ion’s superior performance in extreme cold, with discharge capability at -40°C and charging capability at -30°C. Despite these advancements, mass production of CATL’s second-generation sodium-ion batteries is not expected until 2027.
CATL Chairman Robin Zeng envisions sodium-ion batteries replacing up to 50% of the market for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which currently dominate the energy storage market.
BYD: Scaling Sodium-Ion Production
BYD is also making rapid progress. With a 30 GWh sodium-ion battery factory under construction, the company is preparing for large-scale deployment. Its first utility-scale battery energy storage system, the MC Cube SIB ESS, boasts a power output of 1,155 kW and a storage capacity of 2.3 MWh. While its energy density is less than half that of lithium-ion containers, the system capitalizes on sodium-ion’s cost efficiency, long cycle life, and robust low-temperature performance.
BYD predicts sodium-ion batteries could achieve cost parity with lithium iron phosphate by next year and eventually cost 70% less in the long run, thanks to the abundant availability of sodium and reduced material extraction costs.
Huawei: Addressing Sodium-Ion Challenges
Huawei has taken a different approach, focusing on tackling sodium-ion batteries’ technical challenges, such as low coulombic efficiency and poor cycle life. On November 22, the company announced a new patent for electrolyte additives that stabilize battery performance. By forming a dense interface film, these additives improve efficiency and durability, paving the way for more reliable sodium-ion technology.
Huawei also filed a separate patent earlier this year for composite cathode materials, further demonstrating its commitment to sodium battery innovation.
Why Sodium-Ion Batteries Matter
Sodium-ion batteries hold immense promise due to their reliance on abundant sodium, lower material costs, and the potential use of aluminum anode collectors instead of copper. These factors reduce costs and supply chain risks, making sodium-ion batteries a strong contender for widespread adoption in electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
Despite challenges like lower energy density, continuous advancements from industry leaders suggest sodium-ion batteries are on the brink of large-scale commercialization. With CATL, BYD, and Huawei driving innovation, these batteries could play a pivotal role in the future of sustainable energy storage.
For more details on these developments, read the original article on PV Magazine: New Sodium-Ion Developments from CATL, BYD, Huawei.
