CATL unveil world's first sodium-ion EV with about 248-mile range

Chinese battery manufacturer CATL and automaker Changan have unveiled the world’s first passenger electric vehicle (EV) powered by sodium-ion batteries, marking a significant advancement in EV energy storage technology. The debut model, the Changan Nevo A06 (Qiyuan A06), features CATL’s Naxtra sodium-ion battery and offers an estimated driving range of about 248 miles (400 kilometers) on China’s standard test cycle (CLTC). This battery technology is notable for its enhanced safety profile, reduced fire risk, and improved performance in extreme temperatures compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. CATL plans to begin mass production of the Naxtra batteries in June 2025, with the technology expected to be integrated across multiple Changan sub-brands and vehicle segments, potentially signaling a shift away from lithium-dependent batteries. The Naxtra sodium-ion battery achieves an energy density of up to 175 Wh/kg, comparable to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, and employs a cell