CATL has a revolutionary new battery for plug-in hybrids and EREVs

Innovation in the automotive sector has taken a major leap forward with the launch of Freevoy, the new battery developed by CATL designed to meet the needs of plug-in hybrid and extended-range electric vehicles, capable of increasing range by more than 280 km with just 10 minutes of charging.

Freevoy promises to solve common problems in this type of vehicle -PHEVs and EREVs-, such as limited range, slow charging and reduced performance in low temperatures. Brands such as Li Auto, Avatr, Deepal, Changan Nevo and Neta are already integrating these new batteries into their vehicles, and by 2025 Freevoy is expected to be present in 30 more models from various manufacturers.

The Freevoy battery combines sodium-ion and lithium-ion cells in a specific ratio and arrangement. CATL integrates mixed connections between them, in series and in parallel, to improve range in low temperatures by 5 percent, according to the manufacturer. The sodium-ion battery, on the other hand, serves as a reference for monitoring the system, helping to calibrate the charge level of the lithium-ion battery.

CATL’s engineers have achieved what seemed impossible

Freevoy’s technology includes modifications to the battery cathode, which reduce secondary reactions and improve lithium-ion transport. In addition, CATL has integrated intelligent algorithms and optimized the hardware of the Battery Management System -BMS-, increasing control precision by 40% and the electrical utilization rate by more than 10%. At the same time, power performance has been improved by 20%.

One of the most interesting features of Freevoy is that it is designed to be modular and flexible, which means it can easily adapt to different hybrid vehicle configurations. This modularity allows manufacturers to adjust the battery according to the specific needs of the vehicle, thereby optimizing performance and reducing weight and size.

Freevoy also stands out for its ability to operate in extreme temperature conditions, with efficient discharging and charging at temperatures down to -40 degrees Celsius and -30 degrees Celsius, respectively.

In short, the Freevoy battery promises greater electric-mode range, improved safety and great versatility, making PHEVs and EREVs more efficient and convenient for drivers seeking an alternative to fully electric and combustion vehicles.