Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant BYD has announced plans to launch its next-generation Blade Battery in 2025, aiming to deliver better performance, improved range, and an extended battery life cycle. The new battery will continue BYD’s efforts to enhance its electric vehicle offerings, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of battery innovation.
In an exclusive interview with CGTN (via CnEVPost) at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, Cao Shuang, managing director of BYD Central Asia in the European Auto Sales Division, revealed the company’s exciting plans for the next-generation Blade Battery. Cao emphasized BYD’s dedication to advancing battery technology, which is set to play a significant role in the company’s ambitious plans for the future of electric vehicles.
According to Cao, the new Blade Battery will not only improve the driving range of vehicles but also extend the lifespan of the battery itself, offering increased efficiency for various reuse applications. After serving in vehicles, the battery can be repurposed for energy storage, contributing to BYD’s broader strategy of sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
BYD’s commitment to a comprehensive lifecycle management system for its batteries reflects its strategic focus on sustainability. By working closely with partners across different industries, BYD aims to lead the charge in developing and implementing battery reuse systems. This innovative approach will help minimize the environmental impact of battery disposal while also promoting the circular economy.
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The next-gen Blade Battery follows the successful launch of BYD’s first-generation Blade Battery in March 2020. This lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery became a standard feature across BYD’s New Energy Vehicle (NEV) lineup. Its safety features and affordable production costs have contributed to BYD’s rise as one of the world’s largest EV manufacturers.
Since the introduction of the first-generation Blade Battery, the global EV market has become increasingly competitive. Companies like CATL have released new battery technologies with faster charging times and better discharge rates. In response, BYD is preparing to unveil its second-generation Blade Battery, which is expected to include significant upgrades, such as a charging multiplier above 5.5 C and a discharging multiplier above 14 C. These enhancements will ensure that BYD remains competitive in the global market.
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BYD’s luxury sub-brand, Yangwang, which targets the ultra-premium market, will incorporate the new Blade Battery in its U7 sedan, set to debut soon. This powerful vehicle will be equipped with over 1,000 horsepower, highlighting BYD’s commitment to producing high-performance electric vehicles. The U7 sedan, aimed at customers with a budget of over RMB 1 million ($138,000), will be one of the first vehicles to benefit from the next-generation Blade Battery’s enhanced performance.
Although the final price and launch date of the U7 remain undisclosed, the vehicle was previewed at the 2024 Guangzhou Auto Show, where it began pre-sales. The U7 sedan will be a significant milestone in BYD’s pursuit of high-end, electric-powered luxury cars.
As the second-largest global producer of EVs and batteries, BYD has positioned itself as a leader in the electric mobility industry. The company’s batteries are not only powering BYD’s own vehicles but are also utilized by other major automakers, including Tesla, Toyota, Ford, Kia, and Hyundai. This wide-reaching influence further solidifies BYD’s role as a key player in the global EV market.
In 2023, BYD made history by producing its ten millionth new energy vehicle (NEV), further showcasing its dominance in the EV sector. The company has continued to achieve remarkable sales milestones, including its record-breaking sales month in October 2024, during which it sold over 500,000 NEVs.
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The introduction of the next-generation Blade Battery in 2025 will undoubtedly enhance BYD’s competitive edge, enabling the company to provide even more efficient and longer-lasting batteries for its growing portfolio of electric vehicles.
Despite challenges in the global market and the growing competition from rivals like CATL, BYD remains unwavering in its commitment to innovation. Cao Shuang stressed that BYD’s vision for the future of electric mobility would not be deterred by geopolitical tensions or market shifts. The company is determined to continue introducing groundbreaking technologies that will transform the way people drive and interact with energy systems.
In the coming years, BYD’s next-generation Blade Battery is expected to play a pivotal role in the development of more advanced electric vehicles, unlocking new possibilities for longer ranges, shorter charging times, and enhanced safety. As the company prepares for the 2025 launch, all eyes will be on BYD to see how it continues to shape the future of electric mobility.
