Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) has launched a new 5C ultra-fast charging battery capable of enduring up to 3,000 full charge–discharge cycles while maintaining 80% of its original capacity under ideal conditions. This translates to an estimated driving range of about 1.8 million kilometers—roughly six times the industry average—potentially exceeding the service life of a typical electric vehicle.

Even under extreme heat, the battery demonstrates notable resilience. At sustained temperatures of 60°C, similar to peak summer conditions in desert regions, it retains 80% capacity after 1,400 cycles, equivalent to approximately 840,000 kilometers of use. Such durability surpasses that of most commercial lithium-ion cells available today.

The “5C” rating indicates the battery can be charged at five times its capacity per hour, allowing a full recharge in around 12 minutes. To enable such rapid charging without sacrificing safety or structural stability, CATL has incorporated three major innovations in materials and design:

- A denser, more uniform cathode coating that reduces structural degradation and limits metal-ion loss during fast charging and discharging.

- A proprietary electrolyte additive that detects and seals microcracks in real time, mitigating irreversible lithium loss.

- A temperature-responsive coating on the separator, which automatically slows ion movement when local temperatures rise, offering self-regulating protection against thermal runaway.

Beyond material improvements, CATL has enhanced its battery management system (BMS) to actively channel coolant toward hotspots within the pack. This focused thermal management promotes even temperature distribution, helps prolong battery life, and boosts real-world performance in electric vehicles.

Development of ultra-fast charging batteries started in 2020, with CATL’s first 4C Qilin battery released in 2023. The new 5C version responds to rising demand for fast charging and lower lifecycle costs, particularly in high-mileage applications like heavy trucks, taxis, and ride-hailing fleets. As of February 2026, CATL has not announced a production schedule or confirmed vehicle models for the 5C battery, though industry observers expect early adoption in premium passenger or commercial vehicles.