CATL, Tesla Launch Cooperation To Optimise Charging Times

The world's largest cell manufacturer, CATL, appears to be supporting Tesla's efforts to use cutting-edge battery technology to bring EV component production back to the United States.

In order for Tesla to increase battery production at Giga Nevada, the company was reportedly going to supply equipment and expertise. Although Ford and Tesla are working on a project similar to CATL, Tesla wants to be more independent in terms of US manufacturing due to federal tax credit laws.

The CEO of CATL stated that the company is collaborating with Tesla to supply battery cells that enable significantly faster charging than the ones currently found in the Model 3 RWD.

It is anticipated that CATL's new batteries, which have a faster rate of charge, will work best with the reasonably priced mass market Model 2. CEO Zheng stated that CATL can undoubtedly assist Tesla in meeting its objectives for a reduced cost of production for the Model 2.

It was previously reported that the 53 kWh battery and LFP cells would be included with the Tesla Model 2. The benefits of iron phosphate chemistry include the ability to create safer, much less expensive battery packs. The lower energy density of the LFP cells is a drawback.

This is somewhat countered, though, by the fact that each session can safely be charged to capacity and that CATL features M3P technology, which adds manganese to boost phosphate cells' energy density by up to 15%.

In addition to the M3P chemistry, CATL had previously hinted at a brand-new fast-charging LFP cell that was created with significantly improved performance in cold climates. With 4C speeds, the battery can be fully charged in 15 minutes, which may be what Tesla aims to use in the Model 2.

Although CATL mentions a 10-minute charge, this is only for the common case of bringing it from 20–80%. The new battery technology, which may find its way into the Model 2, has the major benefit of being able to fully charge in thirty minutes, even in below-freezing temperatures.