Chinese battery maker CATL and vehicle builder Yutong are set to introduce a new commercial vehicle battery with a promised 15 year, 1.5 million kilometre life.
The new battery boasts a lifespan of up to 15 years and 1.5 million kilometers, with zero degradation through the first 1,000 cycles, according to the companies in a joint announcement. This breakthrough in battery technology is expected to significantly enhance the performance and longevity of Yutong’s electric commercial vehicles, including buses, light trucks, and heavy trucks.
Yutong has a longstanding partnership with CATL for battery supply, with the two companies extending their collaboration in 2022 through a ten-year agreement. This strategic alliance underscores their shared vision for the future of electrified transportation and highlights CATL’s role as a key player in providing cutting-edge battery solutions.
In an interview with Sustainable Bus in late 2023, Yutong’s CEO Europe, Jack Li, discussed the company’s plans to localise battery production by leveraging CATL’s investment in a plant in Hungary, scheduled to commence production by the end of 2024. This move reflects Yutong’s commitment to securing a stable supply chain for battery modules in Europe, supporting its expansion efforts in the region.
While Yutong has recently launched its electric light truck range in Mexico, there are no updates regarding its plans to enter the European market with the truck range. However, Yutong remains open to exploring opportunities in Europe, considering it as an intriguing yet challenging market for electric trucks. With Yutong buses already established in the UK and Europe, the company continues to evaluate the feasibility of exporting electric trucks to the region.
