CATL to mass-produce sodium batteries in 2026, aiming for a 600 km range

CATL says it has cleared the manufacturing hurdles that delayed its sodium-ion batteries and plans mass production in 2026.

The first applications will be low-cost cars and energy storage, with higher-energy-density cells under development for up to 600 km of range.

Sodium is shaping up as a cheaper, more abundant alternative to lithium, competing mainly with entry-level LFP batteries rather than premium packs.

The move comes after a major 60 GWh supply deal and as CATL keeps its lead in China’s EV battery market.