Chinese Firms Talk Up Sodium Battery as Alternative for EVs

Chinese battery-makers are accelerating research and production of sodium-ion batteries in the hope of tapping a new vein in the electric vehicle (EV) industry as it debates the cost of the alternative to lithium-based energy storage.

Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL) (300750.SZ), the world’s largest battery manufacturer, plans to start mass production of its sodium-ion batteries next year. The company is integrating lithium into the cells to extend their range to meet the EV industry standard.