CATL is exploring lithium-air batteries as a long-term research technology that could eventually enable significantly higher energy density in electric vehicles. However, despite theoretical potential associated with driving ranges of up to 2,000 km, the technology remains far from commercial vehicle applications.
CATL Chief Scientist Wu Kai identified lithium-air batteries as a future research focus at the Equipment Powerhouse Forum 2026. The company is currently prioritizing sodium-ion and solid-state batteries, which are closer to commercialisation.
Lithium-Air Technology Offers High Theoretical Energy Density
Lithium-air batteries use metallic lithium as the negative electrode and oxygen from the surrounding air as the reaction partner. During discharge, lithium peroxide forms inside a porous cathode, while charging reverses the reaction and releases oxygen.
The chemistry has a theoretical specific energy of approximately 3,505 Wh/kg because oxygen does not need to be stored as a conventional cathode material.
However, this figure does not represent the energy density of a complete battery pack. Electrolytes, electrodes, protective systems, housing and air-processing equipment add considerable weight and complexity.
Laboratory research has demonstrated progress, including a lithium-air pouch cell developed by researchers from Jilin University and the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2024. It achieved 757.5 Wh/kg and 241 charge cycles under controlled conditions.
Technical Challenges Remain
One of the main obstacles is controlling the air entering the battery. Oxygen is required for the chemical reaction, but moisture and carbon dioxide must be filtered out to prevent unwanted reactions that can damage battery components.
The system also needs to manage lithium peroxide deposits inside the cathode. These deposits can restrict oxygen movement and must be removed during charging without damaging the electrodes or electrolyte.
Other challenges include charging efficiency, cycle life, lithium-metal stability, safety and power output.
A solid-state lithium-air design developed by Argonne National Laboratory and the Illinois Institute of Technology demonstrated at least 1,000 charge-discharge cycles at room temperature in research reported in 2023. However, these laboratory results do not yet establish suitability for mass-produced electric vehicles.
CATL Prioritises More Mature Battery Technologies
While lithium-air remains a long-term research option, CATL is advancing technologies closer to commercial deployment, including sodium-ion and solid-state batteries.
The company also maintains a leading position in the existing EV battery market. According to SNE Research, CATL installed 143.7 GWh of battery capacity outside China during the first nine months of 2026, representing a 33.7% market share.
Meanwhile, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries are gaining ground internationally. Their share of the battery market outside China increased from 15.8% to 27.7% over the reported year.
Although lithium-air chemistry could eventually support substantially longer-range electric vehicles, achieving that potential will depend on overcoming fundamental challenges in battery durability, safety, charging performance and overall system weight.
Source: CarNewsChina