Supplier Promises More Efficient EV Battery

Chinese battery manufacturer CATL says its newly developed lithium-ion content can make electric-vehicle charging dramatically more efficient, including in very cold climates, which are challenging for EVs, Reuters reported.

The world’s biggest battery supplier said its new material can increase efficiency by 50% in extreme cold and by 43% in more normal temperatures, the news agency said.

Very cold temperatures tend to decrease EVs’ range. CATL says it will have the capacity to produce a battery this year that can provide about 250 miles of range with a 10-minute charge, with plans to achieve as short as a five-minute charge for the same range, Reuters reported.

Driving range is a key concern of reluctant EV adopters, and those in cold-weather climates have that extra disincentive, so a battery that can overcome the latter could help increase sales.

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