Contemporary Amperex Technology Limited (CATL), the world’s largest battery manufacturer and a key supplier for Tesla and various OEMs, recently announced the development of a groundbreaking skateboard chassis named the CATL Integrated Intelligent Chassis (CIIC). This platform features a structural battery pack capable of delivering an impressive 621 miles (1,000 kilometers) of range, emphasizing the industry-wide trend of streamlining manufacturing processes to reduce complexity and costs.
The CIIC integrates essential components such as batteries and electric motors into a unified platform, aiming to enhance efficiency while minimizing weight, costs, and maximizing interior space, according to reports from CarNewsChina. This innovative chassis is expected to serve as the foundation for an upcoming electric vehicle (EV) from Hozon Auto, owner of the Neta brand, with a scheduled launch in China during the third quarter of 2024. Additionally, it has the potential to be adopted by non-Chinese EV manufacturers.
CATL’s achievement of an impressive efficiency rating of 10.5 kilowatt-hours per 100 kilometers (approximately 5.92 miles per kWh) surpasses that of the Tesla Model 3 Long Range. Notably, the CIIC’s efficiency is lower than the Mercedes EQXX, known for covering nearly 750 miles on a single charge with an efficiency of 8.3 kWh per 100 kilometers.
While figures from the China Light Duty Test Cycle (CLTC) can be optimistic, potentially inflating range estimates, the CIIC still boasts an estimated range of over 400 miles by conservative calculations. The chassis further claims a rapid charging capability, allowing for a five-minute charge to add 186 miles (300 km) of range.
As China’s influence in the electric vehicle market extends globally, with Chinese automakers contributing to the EV adoption rates in other parts of Asia and South America, developments like the CIIC showcase the ongoing evolution of the industry. Even though the immediate impact on the U.S. market is uncertain, monitoring advancements in the world’s largest EV market becomes pivotal for staying competitive, fostering growth, and addressing manufacturing challenges faced by the industry.
