BYD plans to introduce its next-generation blade battery in 2025, aiming to boost vehicle range and battery lifespan, according to an executive statement at COP29.
Cao Shuang, Managing Director of BYD Central Asia in the European Auto Sales Division, announced the plans during an interview with Chinese state media outlet CGTN at the 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan.
“I think in the coming years, 2025, BYD will introduce the new generation of our remarkable blade battery,” Cao said. “This will enhance the driving distance of our vehicles and also extend the life cycle of the battery itself.”
BYD is focusing on battery life cycle management and is collaborating with partners across various industries to develop battery reuse systems. After their initial use in vehicles, these batteries can be repurposed for applications such as energy storage.
The company is committed to introducing the latest new energy vehicle (NEV) products and technologies globally. “This commitment is unwavering, no matter what has happened globally in different countries,” Cao added.
Blade Battery Developments
BYD unveiled its first-generation blade battery in March 2020. This lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, known for its safety features, is currently used across BYD’s entire NEV lineup. Despite being the world’s second-largest manufacturer of power battery cells, BYD has not updated its blade battery technology in recent years. In contrast, competitors like CATL have launched new battery products with faster charging capabilities.
Reports suggest that BYD’s second-generation blade battery could be released in the second half of 2024, featuring a charging rate of up to 6C. Additionally, Wu Ying, editor-in-chief of automotive media outlet Xchuxing, indicated that BYD’s luxury sub-brand Yangwang plans to equip its U7 sedan with this new battery, offering a charging rate exceeding 5.5C and a discharging rate over 14C.
Yangwang’s U7 Sedan
Yangwang, launched by BYD on January 5, 2023, targets the ultra-luxury market with vehicles priced around RMB 1 million (approximately $138,000). The brand’s first model was the U8 off-road SUV, followed by the announcement of the U7 sedan, which boasts over 1,000 horsepower. Pre-sales for the U7 began on November 15 at the 2024 Guangzhou Auto Show, although pricing and official launch dates have not yet been disclosed.
Source: CnEVPost
