Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-12-31 12:21Core Viewpoint - The supply of power batteries has eased by the end of 2025, but the shortage of energy storage batteries remains severe, leading to increased prices across the lithium battery supply chain [1][3][4]. Group 1: Battery Supply and Demand - Several car manufacturers have experienced delivery delays due to battery supply shortages, particularly affecting models like Li Auto's i6 and NIO's new ES8 [3][15]. - Reports indicate that from September to November 2025, some car companies sent personnel to battery manufacturers to secure battery supplies, highlighting the competitive nature of the market [3][17]. - The demand for power batteries surged during the traditional peak season, exacerbated by the need for manufacturers to stock up before year-end sales and the upcoming tax changes in 2026 [4][18]. Group 2: Energy Storage Battery Market - The energy storage battery market is facing a more severe shortage compared to power batteries, with many companies operating at full capacity and requiring prepayments for orders [5][19]. - The National Development and Reform Commission has set a target for new energy storage installations to reach 180 million kilowatts by 2027, which is expected to drive significant investment [5][19]. - Predictions indicate that global battery demand will exceed 2.5 TWh in 2026, with energy storage demand expected to grow by over 60% year-on-year [5][19]. Group 3: Price Trends in the Lithium Battery Supply Chain - The prices of lithium carbonate have surged, with futures exceeding 120,000 yuan per ton, marking a more than 100% increase from July's lows [6][22]. - The entire lithium battery supply chain is experiencing price increases, including key components like anode and cathode materials, separators, and copper foil [6][22]. - Companies are adjusting their pricing strategies in response to rising raw material costs, with some battery manufacturers announcing price hikes for their products [6][23]. Group 4: Company Performance and Strategic Partnerships - CATL's energy storage battery system revenue reached 28.4 billion yuan in the first half of 2025, accounting for nearly 16% of total revenue, with a gross margin of 25.52% [6][21]. - Major automotive companies are increasingly focusing on energy storage as a growth area, with BYD ranking third globally in energy storage system shipments [6][21]. - Strategic partnerships have been established between several car manufacturers and CATL, with agreements lasting up to 10 years to ensure stable supply chains [4][18].