Contemporary Amperex Technology Limited (CATL), a well-known Chinese tech company, has unveiled an innovative electric vehicle platform that boasts an impressive driving range of 621 miles and a remarkable five-minute charging time to gain 186 miles. The cutting-edge platform, known as the CATL Integrated Intelligent Chassis (CIIC), takes the form of a skateboard chassis incorporating integrated batteries, electronic motors, suspension systems, and other essential components.
The remarkable performance metrics mentioned are the results of extensive testing conducted by CATL in China. Notably, the CIIC is not intended for direct consumer sale as an electric vehicle; rather, it is a collaborative effort with the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Hozon Auto, which owns the Neta EV brand.
According to a report from Car News China, both CATL and Hozon Auto are set to introduce a new model based on the CIIC platform in the third quarter of 2024. While the specific details of this model remain undisclosed, speculation suggests that it might serve as the foundation for the production version of the Eureka 03 concept, strategically positioned to compete with the Tesla Model 3 in the Chinese market.
The CIIC’s extraordinary 621-mile range is attributed to its 75% battery pack efficiency. However, it’s important to note that this range experiences a 30% reduction in colder temperatures, such as those plummeting to 19 degrees Fahrenheit. While the platform underwent winter testing in northern China, the impact of hot temperatures on its range remains undisclosed, contrasting with the known temperature sensitivity of Tesla’s vehicles.
It’s crucial to acknowledge that the figures presented by CATL’s chief scientist, Wu Kai, are yet to be independently verified by a third party. Nonetheless, if these specifications hold true in real-world applications, the CIIC platform has the potential to outperform existing long-range electric vehicles, including the Lucid Air Grand Touring with a range of 516 miles.
In addition to its impressive range, the CIIC’s versatility is highlighted by its ability to accommodate various body shells due to its variable length and skateboard platform. Despite its technological advancements and market potential, the likelihood of the CIIC platform making its way into the US market remains uncertain. However, it’s worth noting that Ford has previously entered into an agreement with CATL to establish a $3.5 billion battery plant in Michigan, indicating growing collaboration in the electric vehicle sector.
Source: CarNewsChina
