New CATL Battery May Revolutionise PHEV Ownership

Chinese tech giant CATL has developed a new battery pack that allows PHEVs to travel up to 400km on a single charge. This figure for the ‘Freevoy Super Hybrid Battery’ annihilates that for any existing PHEV on the market. It even beats some range figures for fully electric cars with modest-sized battery packs.

CATL claims the pack is specifically for PHEVs and also increases charging capability and cold weather efficiency compared with existing battery technology. 

The battery pack will debut next year and give hybrid owners a “BEV-like” experience, according to CATL. Several Chinese brands have already signed on board. Current CATL (Contemporary Amprex Technology Limited) clients include Volvo, BMW, Ford, MG and Tesla. 

CATL’s new battery tech evidently uses a sodium-lithium chemical compound for enhanced energy density. While the 400km claim is impressive, the firm has yet to release details of battery size or energy capacity. 

This claimed figure is also probably derived using the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle. Still, it is almost three times higher than the PHEVs with the best electric-only range. These include the Polestar 1 and Audi A3 40 TSFI e, both around the 150km range.

Another claimed key advantage of the Freevoy battery is its quick charge ability. Using a fast charger, the battery can recoup 278km range in just 10min, according to CATL.

A reduced need for frequent charging should also enhance the longevity of the battery pack compared with conventional PHEV batteries.

One final advantage of the Freevoy battery is its ability to charge normally at temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees C. 

“Many hybrid drivers want to use more electricity and less fuel, but current [PHEV] models often prioritise the [combustion engine],” a CATL spokesperson said. “Our new battery addresses this by extending electric range and providing faster charging, while also performing well in extreme temperatures.”