China’s Zeekr Signs Deal for CATL’s 620-Mile Battery

China’s Zeekr will be the first automotive brand to deploy CATL’s latest-generation battery promising a 620-mile (1,000-km) range on a single charge.

The two companies have signed a 5-year agreement on supply of the new mass-produced Qilin batteries. The Zeekr 009 will be the first car to house the batteries followed by the ultra-long range Zeekr 001.

The Qilin batteries are based on CATL's third-generation CTP technology. With a claimed record-breaking volume utilization efficiency of 72% and an energy density of up to 255 Wh/kg, the batteries are said to achieve the highest system integration level so far, capable of delivering a range of more than 1,000 km.

Thanks to its large-surface cell cooling technology, Qilin batteries support a hot start in five minutes and fast charging in 10 minutes. With the same chemical system and the same pack size, it claims to deliver 13% more power than the previous 4680 (46 x 80 mm) battery, improving range, fast-charging, safety, service life, efficiency and low-temperature performance.

“Zeekr 009 with Qilin inside will be delivered to our customers in Q1 2023, and Zeekr 001 Qilin edition will be rolled out in Q2 2023,” says An Conghui, CEO of Zeekr.

Robin Zeng, founder and chairman of CATL, adds, “Upholding the principle of delivering solutions with joint efforts, we are dedicated to enabling automakers to build global high-end car brands with leading EV battery technologies and solutions, thus promoting global e-mobility transition.”