Core Viewpoint - Mate Automotive has introduced a battery ejection technology designed to enhance safety by ejecting malfunctioning batteries from electric vehicles, allowing occupants to escape potential hazards quickly [2][3]. Technology Innovation Considerations - The development of the battery ejection technology was driven by market research aimed at addressing safety concerns related to electric vehicle fires, which have negatively impacted consumer confidence [3]. - The technology consists of two main components: a gas generator similar to airbags and a side-insertion battery replacement method [3][4]. - The ejection process is initiated by the vehicle's Battery Management System (BMS) detecting battery anomalies or imminent collisions, ejecting the battery 3 to 6 meters away within one second [3][4]. Advantages of the Technology - Low Cost: The side-insertion battery replacement method does not significantly increase costs compared to traditional bottom replacement methods [5]. - Minimal Secondary Loss: The technology aims to minimize secondary damages by ensuring batteries do not ignite or explode within a specified timeframe [6]. - Reduced Battery Loss: By segmenting large batteries into smaller units, only the malfunctioning battery is ejected, allowing the remaining batteries to remain operational [7]. - Strong Compatibility: The system supports various battery configurations and is compatible with both 400V and 800V platforms [8]. - Minor Vehicle Modifications: The technology requires minimal alterations to existing vehicle designs, making it easier to implement on production lines [9]. Safety Protocols - The ejection system only activates under specific conditions, ensuring safety by not executing ejections in unsafe environments [10]. - After ejection, vehicle owners can use a fire blanket to cover the battery, reducing potential hazards [10]. Industry Feedback and Recommendations - Insurance representatives noted that the technology could lower claims costs and enhance passenger safety, suggesting the need for transparent data on ejection success rates [11]. - Automotive engineers emphasized the importance of integrating the ejection system with advanced driving technologies and addressing space constraints in vehicle designs [13][14]. - The need for consumer education on the technology's benefits was highlighted, as many consumers are willing to pay more for enhanced safety features [14][15]. - Engineers also pointed out the necessity of ensuring that the ejection mechanism operates swiftly and safely, considering the evolving trends in battery design [15][16].

Core Viewpoint - CATL's skateboard chassis business is making significant progress, with a recent agreement signed with Changan Mazda to develop new energy vehicles based on this technology, marking it as the fifth automaker to adopt CATL's skateboard chassis solution [1] Group 1: Business Developments - CATL has previously announced similar collaborations with companies such as Avita, JAC, and BAIC New Energy, with BAIC New Energy planning to launch multiple new models based on the skateboard chassis by around 2026 [1] - The skateboard chassis integrates key components like drive, brake, steering, and battery, allowing for independent development of the vehicle body and chassis, which can accommodate various vehicle types [1] - CATL's chairman stated that the skateboard chassis will significantly reduce the development costs for new models, opening doors for new entrants in the electric vehicle industry [2] Group 2: Technological Innovations - The skateboard chassis is based on Cell To Chassis (CTC) technology, which directly installs battery cells onto the chassis, bypassing traditional assembly methods, thus enhancing efficiency and energy density [3][4] - CTC technology allows for the use of lower-cost lithium iron phosphate batteries while achieving similar range to higher-density batteries, thereby reducing overall costs [4] Group 3: Strategic Planning - CATL established a subsidiary, Times Intelligent, to focus on the skateboard chassis business, with a "531" plan aimed at product rollout within three years and annual support for 2-3 automakers starting from the fifth year [6] - The production base for skateboard chassis in Yichun, Jiangxi, is set to commence operations in 2024, with the capability to develop new models within 12-18 months [6] Group 4: Market Outlook - The market demand for skateboard chassis is expected to grow, with predictions that it could capture nearly double-digit market share within the next decade [8] - Despite current hesitance from automakers to fully embrace the skateboard chassis concept, increasing competition in the electric vehicle sector may lead to a shift in acceptance [7]