[SMM Analysis] Charging Accelerates Again! 6C Ultra-Fast Charging LFP Battery to Be Deployed

SMM, Oct. 10: On September 25, SAIC-GM announced via its official WeChat account that it has launched the industry's first 6C ultra-fast charging LFP battery in collaboration with CATL, capable of increasing range by over 200 kilometers with just a 5-minute charge. The newly upgraded Ultium nearly 900V high-voltage battery architecture is expected to be mass-produced and installed in cars next year.

The battery features "super electronic network cathode technology" to enhance electrochemical reaction efficiency and improve charging efficiency.

On the anode side, the battery is equipped with "second-generation graphite fast ion ring technology," combined with multi-gradient layered electrodes to shorten charge and discharge times, achieving higher energy density and greater cycle stability. In terms of the separator and electrolyte, the battery also incorporates a "super conductive electrolyte formula," "nano-scale ultra-thin SEI solid electrolyte interface film," and an "optimized high-porosity separator."

It is reported that SAIC-GM and CATL are preparing for mass production of this battery, expected to be installed in a pure electric car model next year. CATL will be responsible for producing the battery cells, while the remaining production and assembly of the battery pack will be completed by SAIC-GM's Ultium Super Factory.

SAIC-GM has built two Ultium Super Factories in Shanghai and Wuhan. These factories produce core components such as batteries and electric drives for SAIC-GM's Buick, Chevrolet, and Cadillac brands based on the Ultium electric vehicle platform.

Fast charging technology for NEVs, which addresses range anxiety, is currently the core of power battery competition. The 5C fast charging has already been initially deployed, and 6C is on the way. To solve the range issues of pure electric vehicles, battery companies and automakers are making significant efforts. In June this year, it was reported that BYD is also planning to launch fast-charging battery products, with its second-generation blade battery expected to be released in H2, while also developing a 6C fast-charging battery. With the rapid development of the NEV industry, companies are increasingly demanding higher energy density, longer range, faster charging speeds, and sufficient safety from batteries to enhance competitiveness.