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Sodium‑Ion Batteries: China’s New Power Play
ChinaSunday, March 22, 2026
The company has built a full in‑house chain, from electrolyte formulation to cell architecture and system integration. While it still works on improving energy density and long‑term cycle life, the firm claims to have validated production processes for mass‑producing prismatic sodium‑ion cells. It plans to embed this chemistry into a broader “Aurora Battery” platform that will also include lithium‑ion and solid‑state options.
Sodium‑ion technology is gaining traction in China, especially for low‑cost vehicles and cold climates. Compared with lithium iron phosphate, sodium batteries use more abundant materials and perform better at low temperatures, though they currently lag in overall energy density. Recent industry moves—such as a mass‑produced sodium‑ion passenger car announced by Changan and CATL in early 2026—show the market is moving fast.
The automaker has also filed twenty patents covering everything from materials to manufacturing processes. These filings aim to sharpen fast‑charging strategies, electrochemical models, and degradation analyses, all geared toward extending battery life and efficiency.
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