Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd. (CATL) is set to begin the large-scale rollout of its sodium-ion batteries across several key sectors in 2026. The company shared the roadmap during its supplier conference in Ningde, Fujian province, on December 28, signaling that its sodium-ion cells are now commercially mature for battery-swap networks, passenger and commercial vehicles, as well as energy storage systems.

CATL outlined a “dual-star” strategy in which sodium-ion and lithium-ion technologies will progress side by side. Industry observers point out that the global sodium-ion battery market is shifting from early-stage commercialization toward wider adoption. So far, such batteries have mainly been applied in energy storage projects, short-range electric vehicles, and auxiliary power units. With average cell costs in 2025 remaining significantly below those of lithium-ion batteries, strong market expansion is anticipated through 2030.

In April 2025, CATL introduced its Naxtra sodium-ion brand and started mass-producing cells capable of operating between –40°C and 70°C. The initial offerings include modular power batteries for passenger cars and a 24-volt integrated pack for heavy-duty trucks, representing CATL’s first commercial sodium-ion product series.

Additional technical advances have been disclosed over the past year. In September 2025, CATL confirmed that its next-generation sodium-ion battery can enable pure-electric passenger cars to travel over 500 kilometers on a single charge, with mass production scheduled to align with the 2026 timeline. The cell delivers an energy density of up to 175 Wh/kg and has already met China’s latest national safety standard for electric vehicle traction batteries (GB 38031-2025).

CATL’s sodium-ion products were the first to obtain certification under this new standard, which will take effect in mid-2026 and sets rigorous requirements for thermal stability, mechanical impact resistance, and fast-charge endurance. Independent tests have verified full compliance with all safety regulations.

The company highlights that sodium-ion chemistry provides improved safety and better low-temperature performance compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries, effectively addressing challenges in cold climates. Moreover, these batteries help extend driving range, cut carbon emissions, and reduce reliance on lithium resources. CATL’s 2026 deployment plan supports China’s broader strategies for energy storage and new-energy vehicles, which are reinforced by policies and industry efforts to promote alternative battery technologies.