Sodium-ion batteries explained: Are they really the next big thing for EVs?

Sodium-ion batteries are moving from the lab into commercial EV production.

CATL and automakers are also developing hybrid packs that combine sodium-ion and lithium-ion cells.

The chemistry offers lower cost, better supply availability, stronger cold-weather performance, and improved safety.

Its main drawback is lower energy density, which limits use in long-range EVs.

For now, sodium-ion is likely to expand battery choices rather than replace lithium-ion outright.