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CATL launches sodium-ion battery with 175 Wh/kg energy density
Thursday, February 5, 2026 at 10:21 AM
CATL has released a new generation of sodium-ion batteries featuring an energy density of 175 Wh/kg and the capability to function in extreme temperatures as low as -40°C.
Context
CATL has officially launched its Naxtra brand sodium-ion battery, achieving a record-breaking energy density of 175 Wh/kg. This milestone effectively closes the performance gap with standard LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries, which typically range between 160-180 Wh/kg. A critical technical breakthrough is the battery's resilience in extreme environments; it maintains 90% of its usable power at -40°C and supports fast charging even at -30°C, addressing a primary failure point for traditional lithium-ion chemistries in cold climates.
For investors, this shift represents a strategic move to de-risk the AI and semiconductor supply chains by reducing dependence on volatile lithium markets. CATL is positioning these batteries for massive deployment in 2026, targeting both passenger vehicles with ranges exceeding 500 kilometers and utility-scale energy storage systems. The technology is particularly vital for AI data centers, which require robust backup power and grid-stabilization solutions to manage the intense, fluctuating energy demands of generative AI workloads and high-density chip clusters.
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