CATL also says BMW will be using this new Freevoy battery in its vehicles
China’s Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL), the world’s largest manufacturer of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, has introduced a groundbreaking new hybrid battery system designed to challenge rivals like BYD and further expand its dominance in the global EV market.
The new Freevoy Super Hybrid Battery boasts an impressive driving range of up to 400km (about 250 miles) on a single charge, significantly outpacing the capabilities of traditional hybrid vehicle batteries, which typically offer less than half of that range.
Moreover, this advancement represents a major leap in hybrid technology, addressing one of the most persistent concerns for drivers of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), which is range anxiety. The Freevoy battery, which was unveiled in Beijing, is positioned to reshape the hybrid market by providing drivers with the option to go longer distances on electric power alone.
According to CATL, the Freevoy battery’s 400km range is comparable to that of the batteries found in many fully electric vehicles (EVs), making it a game-changer for the hybrid segment. Additionally, the battery can recharge quickly, with just a 10-minute charge offering up to 280km of range, a feature that significantly improves the convenience of hybrid vehicles.
CATL’s new hybrid battery technology is seen as a response to growing demand for EVs and hybrids in China, where consumers increasingly prefer cars that combine the benefits of both battery power and traditional internal combustion engines. This trend is largely driven by concerns over EV charging infrastructure and the limited range of pure EVs.
On top of that, while EVs have become more popular, especially in urban areas, many Chinese consumers still favour hybrid vehicles for their ability to travel longer distances without worrying about running out of battery charge. The launch of Freevoy comes at a crucial time as major automakers, including BMW and Tesla, are expanding their electric and hybrid offerings.
BMW has already confirmed it will use the new Freevoy battery in upcoming models, and CATL predicts that up to 30 car models will adopt the new technology by the end of 2025. CATL is confident that this new battery will help redefine the hybrid vehicle market and push the entire automotive industry toward higher standards of performance and efficiency.
Gao Huan, CATL’s Chief Technology Officer for the EV business, emphasised that Freevoy is not just a battery but a significant investment that could offer long-term economic returns to car owners. The company expects that this innovation will not only boost its market share but also influence the future direction of the global hybrid market.
