Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd. (CATL), China’s leading battery manufacturer, has revealed a groundbreaking advancement in hybrid vehicle batteries. On Thursday in Beijing, CATL introduced Freevoy, a hybrid battery that promises to reshape the future of electric and hybrid vehicles by combining extended range and superfast charging capabilities.
The Breakthrough in Hybrid Batteries
The Freevoy battery is designed specifically for hybrid vehicles, and its specifications have already captured the attention of the global automotive industry. According to Gao Huan, chief technology officer of CATL’s China E-car Business, the battery offers more than 400 kilometers (248 miles) of range, an unprecedented figure in hybrid battery technology. Even more impressive, just a 10-minute charge adds over 280 kilometers (174 miles) of driving distance, setting a new benchmark in charging speed.
In addition to its remarkable range and charging capabilities, Freevoy integrates both sodium-ion and lithium-ion batteries. This dual-chemistry structure allows the battery to perform reliably in extremely low temperatures. It can discharge energy at temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius and recharge at minus 30 degrees Celsius, ensuring that electric vehicles (EVs) can operate in harsh winter conditions — a major advantage for regions with extreme climates.
Hybrid Market Momentum
China’s hybrid vehicle market is surging, as consumers increasingly seek vehicles that balance the benefits of electric power with the extended driving range offered by hybrids. Hybrid vehicles are proving to be an attractive option for many consumers due to their ability to deliver longer driving distances at a lower cost than traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
According to data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, hybrid vehicle sales reached 3.32 million units in the first nine months of 2024, representing a year-on-year growth of 84.2%. This rise in popularity signals a significant shift in the automotive landscape, as more drivers opt for hybrids that provide better fuel efficiency and fewer emissions without the range anxiety of pure electric vehicles.
“The penetration rate of hybrid vehicles in the NEV market reached 43 percent, which is a force that cannot be ignored in the electrification process,” said Luo Jian, chief marketing officer of CATL. With hybrids becoming an increasingly dominant player in China’s new energy vehicle (NEV) market, CATL’s Freevoy battery is arriving at a pivotal time, poised to capitalize on the growing demand.
Leading Chinese Car Manufacturers Adopt Freevoy
CATL’s Freevoy has already been adopted by prominent Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers, including Li Auto and AVATR, both of which are incorporating the battery into their next-generation models. As hybrid and electric vehicles become more integral to China’s broader transition to green transportation, the introduction of advanced battery technologies like Freevoy will be crucial in pushing the boundaries of what these vehicles can achieve.
In addition to Li Auto and AVATR, other leading automakers such as Geely and Chery are expected to integrate the Freevoy into their future hybrid models, cementing CATL’s role as a key player in the electrification of the automotive industry.
CATL’s Dominance in the Global EV Battery Market
CATL has been a dominant force in the EV battery sector, both in China and globally. According to SNE Research, CATL has held the top spot in global EV battery consumption volume for seven consecutive years, capturing 36.8% of the global EV battery market share in 2023. This success has been driven by CATL’s continuous innovation and its ability to forge partnerships with leading automakers worldwide.
Headquartered in Ningde, in China’s Fujian Province, CATL has secured long-term contracts with major international automotive brands, including BMW, Volkswagen, Daimler, and Honda. These partnerships have helped CATL expand its global footprint and maintain its position as the leader in battery technology.
The Future of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
The release of the Freevoy battery is a testament to CATL’s ongoing commitment to advancing battery technology, both in terms of efficiency and sustainability. As hybrid and electric vehicles continue to gain traction globally, the demand for more powerful, efficient, and adaptable batteries will only grow.
CATL’s leadership in the battery market, coupled with the innovative Freevoy technology, positions the company to play a central role in shaping the future of transportation. Hybrid vehicles, already a significant part of the NEV market, are expected to gain further momentum as consumers recognize the benefits of extended range, rapid charging, and reliable performance in various climates.
With Freevoy, CATL has delivered a solution that addresses the key concerns of hybrid vehicle drivers — range and charging time — while also overcoming the challenges posed by extreme weather. The result is a battery that not only enhances the driving experience but also makes hybrid and electric vehicles more accessible to a broader range of consumers, both in China and around the world.