CATL(SZ:300750) 高工锂电·2025-03-12 11:23Core Viewpoint - CATL is significantly increasing its investment in high-pressure solid-state lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries to meet the growing demand for fast-charging batteries, while also revealing intentions to enter the robotics manufacturing sector [2][4]. Investment and Collaboration - CATL has invested 400 million RMB in Jiangxi Shenghua, a subsidiary of automotive parts supplier Fulian Precision, acquiring an 18.74% stake, which indicates a strong confidence in the high-pressure solid-state LFP technology [2][3]. - This investment follows a previous collaboration in 2021, where CATL and Changjiang Chendao increased their stake in Jiangxi Shenghua, which included a buyback clause that was executed in 2024 [2][3]. Capacity Expansion - Jiangxi Shenghua is committed to launching new production capacity by April 30, 2025, with a target of reaching an annual production capacity of 80,000 tons by July 31, 2025, and an additional 200,000 tons in its Sichuan base by December 31, 2025 [3]. - Combined with CATL's previously announced 450,000 tons per year capacity in Yichang, the total planned expansion exceeds 700,000 tons [3]. Market Demand and Technology - The expansion aligns with the surging demand for fast-charging electric vehicle batteries, with CATL projecting that over 70% of its battery shipments will be fast-charging products by 2025 [3]. - High-pressure solid-state LFP technology is crucial for achieving higher energy density and improved fast-charging performance, with Jiangxi Shenghua's third-generation products achieving a powder density of over 2.52 g/cm³ [3]. Strategic Positioning - The investment reflects CATL's broader strategy to maintain profitability amid intense price competition, as the price of high-pressure solid-state LFP materials has been rising, with increases of up to 1,500 RMB per ton [4]. - CATL aims to secure its supply chain and control production capacity to enhance its bargaining power and protect profit margins [5]. Robotics Sector Entry - The agreement includes potential collaboration in the fields of automotive and intelligent robotics, indicating CATL's interest in diversifying its business [5]. - CATL has been quietly building a research team in Shanghai focused on industrial robotics, with initial projects likely to include robotic arms and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) for its battery production lines [5]. - This move into robotics represents a strategic effort to tap into the automation upgrade opportunities in manufacturing, showcasing CATL's intent to explore new growth avenues beyond its core battery business [5].