CATL Advances Lithium-Air Batteries, Sets Mass Production Timelines for Sodium-Ion and Solid-State Batteries

At the 2026 Equipment Powerhouse Forum, Wu Kai, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and Chief Scientist at Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL), revealed three key advancements in the company's next-generation battery technologies: sodium-ion batteries are expected to achieve mass production in 2024; solid-state batteries are slated to enter limited-volume production by 2027; and CATL has already begun strategic development of lithium-air batteries, viewing them as a pivotal battleground in the global race for next-generation battery technology. Lithium-air batteries boast a theoretical energy density exceeding 1,200 Wh/kg—significantly higher than the 250–270 Wh/kg of today’s mainstream lithium-ion batteries and approaching the energy density of gasoline. Utilizing lithium metal and oxygen from the air as electrode materials, these batteries feature a lightweight structure and straightforward operating principle, holding promise for overcoming the range limitations of electric vehicles. However, practical deployment still faces significant engineering challenges related to catalyst materials, interfacial stability, and cell encapsulation. Preliminary research milestones have already been achieved, with commercial application anticipated after 2030.