Sodium-ion battery technology took the spotlight at China’s national science awards in Beijing on July 8, 2026. Chen Liquan, a foundational figure in the battery industry, received the National Highest Science and Technology Award and used the occasion to urge the automotive sector to accelerate the adoption of alternative cell chemistries. His message focused on reducing reliance on imported lithium and strengthening industrial security.
Chen Liquan’s Vision for Battery Independence
During his acceptance speech, Chen Liquan highlighted the importance of developing independent hardware architectures for the automotive industry. He argued that true industrial security comes from innovating with local materials and technologies, rather than replicating foreign solutions.
Chen emphasized that building alternative battery chemistries is essential to protect vehicle manufacturing from global supply chain volatility. He called on manufacturers to accelerate programs that reduce dependence on imported minerals.
Advances in Sodium-Ion Battery Technology
Industrial suppliers in China are now expanding the use of sodium battery coal anodes, which can replace more expensive synthetic graphite. This approach leverages local carbon resources and helps control costs, especially for budget vehicle segments.
CATL Changan sodium cells have reached a production cost benchmark of 0.051 USD per watt-hour and deliver an energy density of 175 Wh/kg. These specifications are sufficient to power heavy commercial vehicles.
Commercial Applications and Regional Production
Hina Battery has established its headquarters in Wuhan and is building a 2 GWh sodium pack production line. This facility will support commercial transport operations and supply 115,000 cargo vessels along the Yangtze River.
The sodium battery packs developed by Hina Battery maintain 90% capacity retention at -20°C, addressing winter performance challenges for Dongfeng Commercial Vehicles.
China’s Battery Market Leaders
According to China EV DataTracker, CATL led the Chinese battery market in May 2026 with 33.08 GWh of installations, representing a 46.7% market share. BYD followed with 11.87 GWh and a 16.8% share.
Other key suppliers included Gotion High-tech, Calb, Eve Energy, and Rept Battero, with market shares ranging from 6.3% to 3.7%. Zenergy, Sunwoda, Energee, and LG Energy Solution were also among the top battery providers.
Why this matters
Chen Liquan’s call for a shift to sodium-ion batteries highlights the strategic importance of reducing China’s reliance on imported lithium. By developing alternative chemistries and local supply chains, the automotive sector can better manage resource risks and ensure stable production.
Advancements in sodium-ion technology, such as improved cost efficiency and cold-weather performance, are already being implemented in commercial applications, signaling a significant step toward greater energy independence.
What this means for buyers
For consumers and fleet operators, the push toward sodium-ion batteries could lead to more stable pricing and improved availability of electric vehicles, especially in commercial and budget segments. Buyers should watch for further developments in sodium-ion technology, as it may influence future vehicle options and performance in cold climates.
Key Specs
- CATL Changan Sodium Cell Production Cost: 0.051 USD per watt-hour
- CATL Changan Sodium Cell Energy Density: 175 Wh/kg
- Hina Battery Sodium Pack Line Capacity: 2 GWh
- Sodium Battery Capacity Retention at -20°C: 90%
- CATL Market Share (May 2026): 46.7% (33.08 GWh)
- BYD Market Share (May 2026): 16.8% (11.87 GWh)
Source
Images sourced from: carnewschina.com
