BEIJING: CATL has unveiled its dual-electric range extension battery and the latest generation of heavy-duty battery-swapping solution to accelerate the electrification of road freight transportation.
CATL pointed out that competition in electric heavy-duty trucking is moving beyond technical specifications toward full-lifecycle value.
"While battery swapping has made energy replenishment faster and more predictable, concerns about battery utilisation, operating costs and residual vehicle value continue to affect fleet economics," said the Chinese battery manufacturer.
To address these challenges, CATL combines its dual-electric range extension battery with its self-developed Qiji's strategy of standardisation, new infrastructure and a full commercial ecosystem, bringing battery swapping and industry-wide collaboration together to accelerate heavy-duty truck electrification.
CATL's dual-electric range extension battery combines two independent yet complementary battery systems.
The main battery uses Qiji's standardised chassis-mounted swappable battery to maximize efficiency.
A behind-the-cab range-extension power system, currently equipped with a 77kWh battery capable of 3C charging, provides backup power.
Together, the systems maintain uninterrupted power delivery and provide redundancy for demanding operating conditions.
Dual-System Power Redundancy
In conventional battery-swapping trucks, drivers often return for a swap with unused capacity because they are reluctant to run the battery low.
Backup power from the range-extension battery increases the main battery's depth of discharge (DOD) from 70% to over 95%, allowing it to be returned at less than 5% state of charge (SOC).
At this threshold, CATL's switching technology transfers power delivery to the range-extension battery within milliseconds, maintaining a continuous and stable power supply.
"1+X" Architecture and Independent Upgrades
The system uses a "1+X" architecture. One standardised main battery maintains compatibility with the Qiji battery-swapping network, while the range-extension battery can be customised for specific conditions with options including ultra-high energy density, low-temperature resistance for cold climates, or ultra-high power.
The two battery systems can be developed and upgraded independently to meet their respective technical and operational requirements.
Flexible Leasing and Battery Asset Management
The independently owned on-board range-extension battery stays with the vehicle as an asset throughout its service life, reducing reliance on immediate access to a swapping station.
The main battery can be leased according to seasonal freight demand, helping fleets reduce rental costs during quieter periods and manage battery assets more flexibly.
This architecture combines the benefits of standardisation with flexible vehicle configurations, making electric heavy-duty trucks more practical and economically viable across a wider range of applications.
