Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) has introduced a new 5C ultra-fast charging battery that the company says can support up to 3,000 full charge–discharge cycles while retaining 80% of its original capacity under ideal conditions. That cycle life corresponds to an estimated driving distance of approximately 1.8 million kilometers—about six times the industry average—and could exceed the typical lifespan of an electric vehicle.
The performance advantage remains significant even in extreme heat. CATL reports that, at sustained temperatures of 60 °C—comparable to peak summer conditions in desert climates—the battery maintains 80% capacity after 1,400 cycles, equating to roughly 840,000 kilometers of driving. This level of durability outpaces most commercial lithium-ion cells currently on the market.
The “5C” rating signifies the battery’s ability to charge at five times its capacity in one hour, enabling a full recharge in about 12 minutes. To achieve high-rate charging without compromising safety or structural integrity, CATL has implemented three key material and design innovations:
- A denser, more uniform cathode coating that minimizes structural degradation and reduces metal-ion loss during rapid charge and discharge.
- A proprietary electrolyte additive that identifies and seals microcracks in real time, curbing irreversible lithium loss.
- A temperature-responsive coating applied to the separator, which automatically slows ion migration at elevated local temperatures and provides self-regulating protection against thermal runaway.
In addition to material enhancements, CATL has upgraded its battery management system (BMS) to actively direct coolant flow toward pack hotspots. This targeted thermal management improves overall temperature uniformity and helps extend pack lifespan, enhancing practical usability for electric vehicles.
Development of ultra-fast charging cells began in 2020, and CATL’s first 4C Qilin battery launched in 2023. The new 5C design addresses growing demand for rapid charging and lower total lifecycle costs, especially in high-utilization applications such as heavy trucks, taxis, and ride-hailing fleets. As of February 2026, CATL has not disclosed a production timeline or confirmed which models will debut with the 5C battery, though analysts anticipate early adoption in premium passenger or commercial vehicles.
Source: CarNewsChina
