CATL is not the largest producer of batteries for electric cars in the world by chance. The Asian giant has been positioned as the industry benchmark for five years, not only for the volume of batteries, but also for their quality and advanced technology. The new Qilin batteries promise to revolutionize electric mobility. Presented in society months ago, it has not been until now when they have had a place to settle. Zeekr will be the first company in the world to use Qilin batteries capable of offering up to 1,000 kilometers of autonomy.
At the beginning of summer, CATL announced with great fanfare the arrival of the most advanced battery technology for electric cars. Presented as Qilin, these are third-generation batteries with cell-to-pack technology. Among the many achievements is setting a record for packaging efficiency, reaching 72% by volume, far exceeding the 50% by volume of first-generation batteries. That means that CATL is able to offer a package where 72% of the space can be occupied by battery cells.
Another important milestone is the specific gravity; 255 Wh per kilogram. CATL will offer the Qilin batteries with two different chemistries. On one side will be the LFP units (Lithium Ferrophosphate), in which case the specific density is reduced to 160 Wh per kilogram. The second chemical variant will be the NCM units (Nickel Cobalt Manganese Oxide). It is in this type of batteries where the maximum possible performance is expected to be achieved, although at the moment the volumetric density has not been officially specified, initially announced between 290 and 450 Wh per liter.
Such figures should allow autonomies close to or greater than 1,000 kilometers. Obviously we are talking about theoretical data, but soon the industry will be able to verify the veracity of the figures since Zeekr will soon install them in their particular pioneers. The first of all to offer them will be the Zeekr 009 that we met a few weeks ago. A 100% electric minivan that offers a unique aesthetic point of view. The next on the list will be the Zeekr 001, in which case the company already dares to announce a range of 1,000 kilometers.
Regarding load capacity and performance, CATL announces that there may be several possible configurations. With the announcement of a hot start in 5 minutes, the Chinese company promises dizzying times for fast charges, from 10 to 80% of the battery in just 10 minutes. Only power remains to be specified, although during the presentation it was assured that Qilin batteries are capable of achieving 13% more power than Tesla’s 4680 cells. The first deliveries will take place early next year, while the 001 will have to wait a few more months.
