Chinese company CATL, the world’s largest EV battery maker, is working on a new skateboard platform set to underpin EVs from other automakers. The CIIC (CATL Integrated Intelligent Chassis) has already started real-world testing in China, promising a range of 621 miles (1,000 km) between charges.
According to the company, the battery of the CIIC can replenish 186 miles (300 km) of range in 5 minutes when connected to a fast charger. In terms of efficiency, an impressive average consumption of 10.5 kWh/100km (5.9 miles/kWh) was achieved during testing, alongside the 621-mile (1,000 km) range. The latter was reduced by 30% in temperatures of 19.4°F (-7°C), meaning that the EV could still travel 435 miles (700 km) in cold weather.
More: CATL Says It Has Managed To Drastically Cut Charging Time Of EV Batteries In Cold Weather
The results were shared by Wu Kai, CATL’s Chief Scientist during his talk at the Dishui Lake Summit of the International Automotive Conference on November 30. Kai said that winter testing took place in Heihe and summer testing in Turpan.
CATL’s new skateboard chassis uses the CTC (Cell to Chassis) technology. The platform integrates the electric motors, battery pack, high- and low-voltage systems, steering, and brakes, reducing production costs and development times. At the same time, it is beneficial for packaging and gives more freedom to automotive designers, being compatible with different bodystyles.
Which Company Will Use CATL’s New Platform?
CATL is not interested in rolling out a self-branded EV, but plans on sharing the technology with other companies as part of its multiple partnerships. The first automaker that will use the CIIC in a production model will be Hozon Auto from China. Following an agreement signed in January 2023, Hozon and CATL anounced the development of a new CIIC-based EV which is expected to enter production in the third quarter of 2024.
According to Car News China, the prototype striking the aforementioned results was a small sedan, likely coming from Neta which is a Hozon-owned brand. Note that CATL and Neta expanded their strategic partnership with a new agreement that was signed in October 2023 although the press release didn’t mention anything about a new model.
Note: The pictured EV is the Neza S Yaoshi that debuted in 2022
