Dongfeng Motor is seeking to become the first automaker to launch CATL’s third-generation Shenxing battery, which promises a full charge in just six minutes. As competition intensifies among Chinese automakers and battery suppliers, Dongfeng’s negotiations with CATL highlight the strategic importance of rapid-charging technology.
CATL’s Third-Generation Shenxing Battery
CATL introduced its third-generation Shenxing battery in April 2026, setting a new benchmark for charging speed. The battery can charge from 10% to 80% in just 3 minutes and 44 seconds, and reach a full charge in approximately 6 minutes under normal temperatures.
This performance surpasses the charging capabilities of competitors such as BYD’s Flash Charging technology.
Dongfeng’s Push for First-Launch Rights
According to a report by 21CBH, Dongfeng Motor has been negotiating with CATL since the second quarter of 2026 to secure the first-launch rights for the Shenxing battery. The move is aimed at strengthening Dongfeng’s position in battery supply and securing favorable terms.
Despite a broader industry trend of automakers diversifying their battery suppliers, CATL remains the dominant player, holding a 43.8% market share in China as of the first nine months of 2026.
Strategic Partnership and Energy Ecosystem
On October 29, Dongfeng and CATL signed a group-level strategic cooperation agreement. This partnership focuses on building an integrated super-charging and battery-swapping energy ecosystem.
Brands under Dongfeng, including Voyah, M-hero, and Epicland, are expected to be the first to feature 10C or higher super-charging products developed jointly with CATL.
CATL’s Expanding Energy Network
CATL is evolving from a battery manufacturer to a provider of comprehensive energy solutions. The company is integrating its Chocolate battery-swapping stations with Shenxing super-charging piles to create a large, interconnected energy network.
CATL has recently reorganized its management to better align its passenger and commercial vehicle operations, aiming to accelerate the adoption of its battery-swapping technology.
The company’s swapping ecosystem now includes partners such as Dongfeng, Chery, BAIC, Changan, GAC, and Seres. CATL plans to expand its network to over 3,000 integrated charging and swapping stations by the end of 2026.
Why this matters
The race to debut CATL’s Shenxing battery reflects the growing importance of ultra-fast charging in the electric vehicle market. For automakers like Dongfeng, securing access to this technology could offer a significant competitive advantage.
CATL’s efforts to build a comprehensive charging and swapping network signal a shift toward integrated energy solutions, which could reshape how EV owners charge and maintain their vehicles.
What this means for buyers
Buyers can expect to see Dongfeng models equipped with CATL’s latest fast-charging batteries in the near future, potentially reducing charging times to just a few minutes. This could make electric vehicles more convenient for daily use and long-distance travel.
As CATL’s charging and swapping network expands, owners of compatible vehicles may benefit from greater flexibility and faster turnaround at charging stations.
Key Specs
- Battery Type: CATL third-generation Shenxing
- Charge Time (10% to 80%): 3 minutes 44 seconds
- Full Charge Time: Approximately 6 minutes
- Market Share (China, Jan–Sep 2026): 43.8%
- Planned Charging/Swapping Stations by End of 2026: Over 3,000
Images sourced from: supercarblondie.com
