Zhong Guo Neng Yuan Wang·2026-02-06 04:03Core Viewpoint - Changan Automobile and CATL jointly launched the global sodium battery strategy and unveiled the world's first mass-produced passenger vehicle equipped with CATL's sodium battery technology at a conference held in Inner Mongolia [1]. Group 1: Product Launch and Features - The first mass-produced sodium battery vehicle has completed rigorous winter validation tests in Yakeshi, achieving over 400 kilometers of pure electric range with precise battery display [5]. - The sodium battery exhibits exceptional low-temperature performance, with discharge power nearly tripling compared to lithium iron phosphate battery models at -30°C, and maintaining over 90% capacity at -40°C, even functioning at -50°C [5]. - The energy density of the sodium battery cell has reached the industry's highest level of 175Wh/kg [5]. Group 2: Safety and Testing - The sodium battery demonstrated extreme safety features, remaining smoke-free, flame-free, and non-explosive after undergoing severe abuse tests, including crushing and drilling [5]. - Even after being sawed through, the battery pack continued to discharge normally, significantly exceeding national safety standards [5]. Group 3: Future Plans and Investments - CATL plans to build over 3,000 "chocolate" battery swap stations across more than 140 cities by 2026, prioritizing northern regions with severe winter conditions [6]. - The company has invested nearly 10 billion yuan in sodium-ion battery research since 2016, conducting tests on nearly 300,000 battery cells with over 300 R&D personnel involved [6]. - Future advancements in sodium battery technology are expected to enhance pure electric range capabilities to 500-600 kilometers, covering over 50% of the market's range demands [6].