Shanghai (ZXZC)- On March 14, NIO and CATL signed a framework agreement in Beijing, heralding a significant collaboration between the two parties. The partnership aims to push the boundaries of battery technology, focusing on the development of long-life batteries tailored to NIO's electric vehicle (EV) battery swap needs.

Photo credit: NIO

The current standard warranty period for new energy vehicle (NEV) batteries is approximately 8 years. However, between 2025 and 2032, nearly 20 million NEVs will see their battery warranties expire. This looming deadline presents challenges for consumers, including the high costs associated with battery replacement and the discrepancy between the lifespan of the vehicle and its battery. Addressing the issue of battery longevity has thus become an urgent priority.

NIO has distinguished itself within the industry by developing the first comprehensive battery health management system covering the entire lifecycle of the battery. This system monitors temperature, usage intensity, and frequency—the three key factors affecting battery lifespan. Leveraging big data analytics on battery performance, NIO said it has been able to extend the lifespan of its batteries, ensuring that after 12 years of use, they still retain 80% of their original capacity. Furthermore, NIO has made significant advancements in battery technology, including the development of electrode materials and electrolytes, which have greatly improved both the calendar life and cycle life of its batteries. Currently, NIO boasts a full stack of R&D capabilities, from material synthesis to system assembly and validation testing, holding 1,435 technological patents, 104 of which are directly related to battery lifespan.

CATL, a leader in the power battery sector, has developed core long-life battery technologies, including slow-degradation processes, artificial Solid Electrolyte Interphase (SEI) films, and lithium replenishment. This collaboration with NIO will focus on joint research and development in the field of long-life batteries, aiming to accelerate technological innovation and the application of these technologies in new vehicle models.

Through this new partnership, CATL will design and develop battery systems with extended lifespans for NIO, enhancing the service life of future EVs. This technical partnership is expected to foster a long-term, stable, and mutually beneficial relationship between the two companies, reducing the financial burden of battery replacement for consumers and contributing to sustainable social development.

NIO stands as a prominent smart electric vehicle manufacturer in China and operates the world's largest network of EV battery swap stations, with over 2,300 stations worldwide offering more than 40 million battery swaps to date. Companies such as Changan Auto, Geely, JAC Motors, and Chery have joined forces with NIO to expand the battery swap network and develop unified standards for the industry.

CATL is a global leader in new energy innovation technology, committed to providing top-tier solutions and services for the global new energy market. As of December 31, 2023, CATL has served over 11.67 million vehicles worldwide.