China’s leading battery manufacturer, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL), unveiled a groundbreaking battery for hybrid vehicles, setting a new standard in range and fast-charging capability. Announced at a special event in Beijing, the new battery, named Freevoy, brings an impressive 400-kilometer range to hybrid vehicles and is the first in its class to do so.
A New Era for Hybrid Batteries
Designed with cutting-edge technology, Freevoy offers a superfast-charging capability, adding up to 280 kilometers in just 10 minutes. This advancement, detailed by Gao Huan, CATL’s Chief Technology Officer for China E-car Business, brings hybrids closer to bridging the gap with traditional vehicles in terms of convenience and performance.
Freevoy utilizes both sodium-ion and lithium-ion batteries, which not only improves range but also enables the battery to operate in extreme conditions—functioning at temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius for discharging and minus 30 degrees Celsius for charging. This cold-weather functionality offers an exciting advantage for drivers in colder climates, addressing one of the critical challenges for new energy vehicles (NEVs).
Consumer Shift Toward Hybrid Vehicles
The hybrid vehicle market is experiencing unprecedented growth in China. Many Chinese consumers prefer hybrids due to their extended driving range and cost-effectiveness compared to gasoline-powered cars. According to data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, hybrid sales reached 3.32 million units in the first nine months of the year—a year-on-year increase of 84.2%.
Luo Jian, CATL’s Chief Marketing Officer, emphasized the importance of hybrids in the electrification journey, noting that the hybrid segment now represents 43% of China’s NEV market—a substantial force in transforming the automotive landscape.
Widespread Adoption and Global Reach
Several prominent Chinese EV manufacturers, including Li Auto and AVATR, have already adopted Freevoy technology, with additional partnerships underway with companies like Geely and Chery. This development is yet another achievement for CATL, which holds a leading global position, commanding 36.8% of the global EV battery market as of 2023, according to SNE Research. CATL’s robust customer base includes international brands such as BMW, Volkswagen, Daimler, and Honda, further cementing its influence on the EV and hybrid industries worldwide.
The Future of Hybrid and EV Batteries
As hybrid vehicles gain momentum in China and globally, Freevoy exemplifies how innovation in battery technology is driving the industry forward. CATL’s investment in hybrid solutions that can withstand extreme temperatures and recharge quickly marks an essential step in making hybrids a feasible alternative for a broader consumer base.
With Freevoy, CATL is setting a new benchmark in hybrid battery technology, offering a sustainable, high-performance solution that addresses the evolving needs of both consumers and automakers world wide.