The global race to diversify electric vehicle battery technology has taken a significant leap forward with CATL‘s recent achievement-the frist certification under new national standards for sodium-ion batteries. This approval from China’s GB 38031-2025 standard signals a potential shift away from reliance on lithium, a resource facing supply chain constraints adn rising costs.The newly certified “Naxtra” batteries promise dramatically faster charging times and improved performance in extreme temperatures, perhaps accelerating EV adoption worldwide beginning as early as 2026.
Revolutionary Sodium-Ion Battery Technology Receives Key Certification
CATL, the world’s leading battery manufacturer, has achieved a significant milestone, becoming the first company to secure new Chinese national certification (GB 38031-2025) for its sodium-ion (Na-Ion) batteries, branded as Naxtra. This approval paves the way for the widespread adoption of these innovative batteries in electric vehicles as early as 2026, with a key advantage being their substantially faster charging capabilities. The development comes as automakers and battery manufacturers globally race to diversify battery chemistries and reduce reliance on lithium.
Unmatched Speed Advantage
CATL first demonstrated a first-generation sodium-ion battery in 2021 capable of reaching 80% charge in just 15 minutes, even at room temperature. This impressive speed is directly linked to the properties of sodium-ion chemistry, which allows for more efficient ion flow between the cathode and anode compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The company anticipates that sodium-ion batteries could potentially replace up to half of the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries currently in use, representing a major shift in the market.
Safety and Performance Under Extreme Conditions
The new GB 38031-2025 certification confirms that the Naxtra battery’s rapid charging speed does not compromise safety. Specialized tests conducted at the China Automotive Technology and Research Center, involving multiple fast-charging cycles, verified that the battery maintained its structural integrity and thermal stability even under intense energy transfer. Notably, Naxtra demonstrated stable and fast charging across a wide temperature range, from -40°C to +70°C. This capability is particularly valuable in regions with harsh winters, where conventional lithium-ion batteries often experience significant power and charging speed reductions, frequently requiring pre-heating to extend charging times.
Future Integration and Ecosystem Expansion
CATL has confirmed that its sodium-ion batteries will be integrated into the next generation of premium electric vehicles from Chinese manufacturer Li Auto, signaling a broader rollout of this fast-charging technology in production models. Furthermore, Naxtra is fully compatible with CATL’s “Choco-Swap” platform, which enables rapid battery swapping. This system allows drivers to exchange a depleted battery for a fully charged one in under five minutes – a remarkably convenient solution.
A Comprehensive Ecosystem and Continued Innovation
This new technology not only addresses charging time concerns but also opens up new possibilities for the automotive industry. The potential to achieve approximately 124 miles (200 km) of range after just five minutes of charging represents a compelling vision for the future. Such efficiency could reshape perceptions of electric vehicle practicality for everyday use, making them more appealing to a wider range of consumers. Collaboration between SAIC, GM, and CATL has previously yielded batteries with 6C charging speeds, and Naxtra builds upon these advancements.
