Core Viewpoint - The price of battery cells continues to rise, with significant increases observed in various segments of the lithium battery supply chain [2][3] Price Trends - According to Zeyan Consulting, the price of lithium iron phosphate for vehicles has increased by 0, 0.02 (+6%), and 0.03 (+3) yuan/Wh in 2025 H1, Q3, and Q4 respectively [2] - The market price for 50Ah and 100Ah small battery cells rose from approximately 0.33 yuan/Wh at the beginning of the year to over 0.4 yuan/Wh, with some urgent orders exceeding 0.45 yuan/Wh, marking a maximum increase of over 20% [2] - The price range for battery cells in the energy storage projects opened on November 14, 2025, was between 0.27 yuan/Wh and 0.33 yuan/Wh, with Company C winning the bid at 0.33 yuan/Wh, reflecting a 1.2% increase [2] Price Increase Logic - The increase in battery cell prices is supported by the rising costs of upstream materials, with significant price hikes in lithium hexafluorophosphate, VC, lithium iron phosphate, and other materials, with increases of 215%, 245%, 30%, 2%, 3%, and 3% respectively [2] - The differences in price increases across various segments are attributed to varying levels of supply and demand tension [2] Demand Drivers - The core driver of the current price increase is the robust demand for dynamic energy storage, with China's new energy vehicle sales reaching 11.23 million units in the first three quarters of 2025, a year-on-year increase of 35% [3] - The energy storage sector has also shown unexpected performance following policy changes, with domestic energy storage economics becoming more favorable and overseas markets experiencing simultaneous growth [3] Production and Profitability - Battery cell production has increased by 7% month-on-month in November, driven by strong demand and rising prices [4] - Leading companies in the battery cell and electrolyte segments are maintaining high capacity utilization rates, resulting in improved profitability, with net profit margins for various components showing positive month-on-month changes [4] Investment Recommendations - The SW lithium battery index has risen by 44.8% year-to-date, with a significant increase of 47.7% since Q3 [5] - Companies such as CATL, Yiwei Lithium Energy, and Tianci Materials are recommended for investment, along with a focus on segments with potential price increases and technological flexibility [5]