Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jun 23
CATL Unveils 250-Mile EV Battery in Under 10 Minutes as China Presses Tech Lead
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jun 23

CATL Unveils 250-Mile EV Battery in Under 10 Minutes as China Presses Tech Lead

2 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jun 23

Summary

  • CATL said its new battery can add 250 miles of driving range in less than 10 minutes, a charging speed the company says is about three times that of typical EV batteries.
  • The battery comes from CATL’s Ningde megafactory complex, described as the world’s largest and most advanced cluster of battery plants, where highly automated production feeds cars and data centers worldwide.
  • CATL’s technology already powers millions of low-cost Chinese electric vehicles exported globally, underscoring how battery manufacturing has become a key channel for China’s industrial reach.
  • The launch highlights a broader shift in the U.S.-China tech race, with China now leading in sectors including batteries, solar panels, rare earths and some life sciences after decades of relying on foreign know-how.

Insights

With China's batteries 40% cheaper, can U.S. industry survive five-year grid delays and billions in canceled projects?
As China develops batteries with gasoline-like energy, what is the next globally contested resource after lithium?
The U.S. aims for AGI while China integrates AI into its economy. Who is winning the more critical race?

CATL Shenxing Pro: Ultra-Durable, Fast-Charging EV Battery Sets New Global Standard

Overview

CATL's Shenxing Pro battery, introduced in September 2025, marks a major leap in electric vehicle technology by setting new standards for performance and reliability. This battery stands out for its exceptional cold-weather capabilities, adding over 250 miles of range even at –20°C, and delivers impressive power with up to 830 kW at just 20% charge, enabling rapid acceleration. These features directly address common concerns about EV performance in extreme conditions, making electric vehicles more practical and appealing. The Shenxing Pro is positioned to drive broader EV adoption and reshape expectations for range, power, and usability.

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