Batteries for electric vehicles that can fully charge in just over six minutes have arrived.

      CATL has made EV charging quicker than your morning caffeine fix.

      CATL hosted its Super Technology Day in Beijing, and if you have any interest in electric vehicles (EVs), this event is significant. According to PR Newswire, the company introduced various new battery technologies, with the centerpiece being the third-generation Shenxing Superfast Charging Battery.

      The statistics are remarkable. It takes just 3 minutes and 44 seconds to charge from 10% to 80%, and 6 minutes and 27 seconds to go from 10% to 98%. Even at -30 degrees Celsius, this battery can charge from 20% to 98% in approximately 9 minutes.

      For perspective, this is faster than BYD’s blade battery and Geely’s fast-charging technologies. In fact, many people take longer to fill up their gas tank and grab a snack than this battery requires for charging.

      CATL also claims that the battery will maintain over 90% of its capacity after 1,000 full charge cycles, addressing the common compromise between fast charging and battery lifespan.

      What additional announcements did CATL make?

      CATL had more than one announcement to share. The third-generation Qilin battery is designed for high-end EVs, boasting a cell energy density of 280 Wh/kg and an estimated range of 1,000 km, which should alleviate any range anxiety for EV owners.

      PR Newswire

      The entire battery pack weighs 625 kg, which is 255 kg lighter than similar systems. The weight reduction alone, according to the company, enhances braking distance, acceleration, and even tyre lifespan by over 30%.

      For hybrid vehicle users, the second-generation Freevoy Super Hybrid battery offers a pure electric range of up to 600 km, with a combined vehicle range exceeding 2,000 km. Additionally, the new Naxtra Sodium-ion battery is set to enter large-scale production by the end of 2026, catering to those in extreme weather conditions.

      PR Newswire

      What does this imply for you?

      Charging and range anxiety have traditionally been the biggest arguments against transitioning to an EV. CATL is making it increasingly challenging to use that as an excuse. With fast-charging times nearing those at gas stations and batteries capable of reaching 1,000 kilometers on a single charge while performing well in extreme cold, the difference between EVs and conventional vehicles is rapidly narrowing.

      By the end of 2026, CATL plans to set up 4,000 integrated charge and swap stations throughout China. China is at the forefront of advancements in EV technology, and it’s no surprise that customers in the U.S. are eager for similar capabilities in their vehicles.

      Rachit is a seasoned technology journalist with over seven years of experience in the consumer technology sector.

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