Aiva, the new EV brand backed by Seres, is exploring a partnership with CATL to access its battery swap network. The move comes as Aiva prepares to debut its first production model, the ME7, by the end of 2026.
Aiva and CATL Discuss Battery Swap Cooperation
Aiva, owned by Saidou Technology and supported by Seres, is in discussions with CATL regarding battery swap solutions. According to a report from LatePost, the specifics of the cooperation are still being finalized, and details about the battery specifications for the upcoming Aiva ME7 have not been disclosed.
CATL currently holds about 9.89% of Saidou Technology, while Shaci Zhiyuan, backed by Chongqing state-owned capital, is the largest shareholder with a 34.5% stake. Seres is the second largest shareholder at 32.96%.
Aiva ME7 Set for Late 2026 Debut
The Aiva ME7, the brand’s first production model, is scheduled to debut by the end of 2026. Pre-orders are expected to begin in early 2027. The vehicle is planned to be produced at Seres’ Phoenix plant, with Seres providing manufacturing, supply-chain, quality-control, and engineering support.
Saidou Technology, formerly known as Landian Technology, completed a capital increase and ownership restructuring earlier this year. The company unveiled the Aiva brand on June 9, 2024, and its first flagship store is currently under construction in Chongqing.
CATL’s Expanding Battery Swap Network
CATL is rapidly growing its battery swap infrastructure in China. As of June 30, 2024, the company had built 2,000 Choco swap stations across 31 provinces and 180 cities. CATL aims to operate more than 3,000 Choco swap stations by the end of 2026, with plans to expand cross-brand access through standardized battery specifications.
CATL initially offered two standardized battery packs for passenger vehicles, the 20# and 25#. In April 2024, it introduced the 26# swap battery for larger vehicles, featuring an 800-volt high-voltage architecture and a 75 kWh capacity. This battery supports vehicles in the B to C segments.
Battery Leasing and Market Positioning
Aiva’s lineup will mainly target the mainstream auto market with models priced above $29,722 (~AUD 41,467). By leveraging battery leasing and swap technology, Aiva could separate battery costs from vehicle prices, potentially lowering upfront purchase costs for consumers and increasing pricing flexibility.
CATL provides battery technology, safety, charging, and swapping support to Aiva, while Seres focuses on vehicle manufacturing and engineering.
Why this matters
Aiva’s potential integration with CATL’s battery swap network could allow the new brand to accelerate its market entry without the need to build its own energy-replenishment infrastructure. This approach may reduce capital requirements and provide customers with access to an established network of swap stations.
The collaboration also highlights the growing trend of automakers partnering with battery technology providers to offer flexible ownership models and improve charging convenience for EV buyers.
What this means for buyers
Buyers interested in the Aiva ME7 should watch for further announcements regarding battery swap compatibility and pricing details as the brand finalizes its partnership with CATL. The ability to lease batteries and use a widespread swap network could make Aiva’s upcoming models more accessible and convenient for consumers in China and potentially overseas.
Key Specs
- First Production Model: Aiva ME7
- Debut Date: By end of 2026
- Pre-orders Begin: Early 2027
- Target Market Price: Above $29,722 (~AUD 41,467)
- Production Plant: Seres’ Phoenix plant
- CATL Choco Swap Stations (as of June 2024): 2,000
- CATL Swap Station Target (end of 2026): More than 3,000
- 26# Swap Battery Capacity: 75 kWh
Source
Images sourced from: cnevpost.com, letsdatascience.com
