36氪·2025-10-22 10:02Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the competitive landscape of the battery industry, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by second-tier battery manufacturers in China and their strategies to expand into overseas markets, especially in Europe [5][9][12]. Group 1: Industry Overview - The Douai battery factory in France, launched in June, has an initial planned capacity of 10 GWh, supplying batteries to Renault's R5 model [6][8]. - The French government aims to create a "European Battery Valley," stretching approximately 110 kilometers, to boost local battery production [8]. - The domestic battery market is dominated by CATL and BYD, which together hold around 70% market share, leaving only 30% for other manufacturers [11][15]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - Since 2019, the domestic battery installation volume has increased over eightfold, intensifying competition among second-tier manufacturers [11]. - The shift in subsidy policies from "supporting the weak" to "strengthening the strong" has favored high-energy-density ternary lithium batteries, benefiting leading companies like CATL [13]. - The article highlights the importance of battery suppliers in influencing consumer purchasing decisions, with CATL becoming a preferred supplier for high-end models [18][20]. Group 3: Overseas Expansion - Second-tier battery manufacturers are increasingly looking to expand overseas due to the shrinking domestic market and the potential for higher profit margins abroad [12][28]. - The average price of lithium battery packs in Europe is significantly higher than in China, creating a lucrative opportunity for manufacturers [31][32]. - The article lists various companies and their planned production capacities in different countries, indicating a strategic push towards localizing production to meet overseas demand [29][30]. Group 4: Competitive Challenges - Despite the opportunities in overseas markets, second-tier manufacturers face stiff competition from CATL, which is also expanding internationally [47][54]. - The article notes that the domestic market's intense competition may eventually replicate itself in overseas markets once local production capacities are established [53]. - The profit margins for second-tier manufacturers have been declining, with many struggling to maintain profitability in a market increasingly dominated by leading players [56].