CATL Debuts New 5C Ultra-Fast Charging Battery

Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) has unveiled a 5C ultra-fast charging battery capable of supporting up to 3,000 full charge–discharge cycles while maintaining 80% of its original capacity under ideal conditions. This cycle life translates to an estimated driving range of roughly 1.8 million kilometers—approximately six times the industry average—potentially exceeding the typical lifespan of an electric vehicle.

Even under extreme heat, the battery demonstrates remarkable resilience. CATL states that at sustained temperatures of 60°C—similar to peak summer conditions in desert regions—the cell retains 80% capacity after 1,400 cycles, equivalent to about 840,000 kilometers of travel. Such durability surpasses that of most commercial lithium-ion batteries available today.

The “5C” rating indicates the battery can charge at five times its capacity per hour, allowing a full recharge in around 12 minutes. To enable such high-speed charging without sacrificing safety or structural stability, CATL has introduced three core material and design innovations:

- A denser and more uniform cathode coating that reduces structural degradation and limits metal-ion loss during fast charging and discharging.

- A proprietary electrolyte additive that detects and seals microcracks in real time, minimizing irreversible lithium loss.

- A temperature-responsive coating on the separator that automatically slows ion movement when local temperatures rise, offering self-regulating protection against thermal runaway.

Beyond material improvements, CATL has enhanced its battery management system (BMS) to actively guide coolant flow toward hotspots within the pack. This targeted thermal management boosts temperature uniformity, helps prolong battery life, and improves real-world usability in electric vehicles.

Development of ultra-fast charging batteries started in 2020, with CATL’s first 4C Qilin battery released in 2023. The new 5C version responds to growing demand for rapid charging and lower lifetime costs, particularly in high-use scenarios like heavy-duty trucks, taxis, and ride-hailing fleets. As of February 2026, CATL has not announced a production schedule or confirmed vehicle models for the 5C battery, though analysts expect early adoption in premium passenger or commercial vehicles.