Chinese automaker Geely's premium electric vehicle brand, Zeekr, is strategically moving towards greater self-sufficiency by unveiling its in-house-developed lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries designed for fast charging. The batteries, manufactured at Zeekr's Zhejiang Province battery plant, will make their debut in the upcoming Zeekr 007 sedan, promising rapid charging capabilities and an extended driving range.
Zeekr's LFP batteries set themselves apart by charging the 007 sedan sufficiently within 15 minutes, offering an impressive driving range of 500 km (311 miles), according to Market Screener. This remarkable feat is achieved by integrating the batteries with an 800-volt electric system, showcasing Zeekr's commitment to cutting-edge technology.
Despite the common perception that LFP cells have a lower energy density compared to nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) batteries, Zeekr's engineering team focused on achieving a higher energy density at the pack level. The outcome is a potent LFP battery that remains cost-effective, aligning with Zeekr's goal of delivering premium EVs at competitive prices.
Introducing ZEEKR’s new LFP EV batteries that support ultra-fast charging and high energy density. The technologies are developed by #ZEEKR in-house engineering team. pic.twitter.com/ub7MVFnP6s
— ZEEKR (@ZEEKRGlobal) December 14, 2023
Paving The Way
Highlighting the success of their new battery pack, Zeekr emphasizes a remarkable volume utilization rate of 83.7%, surpassing many global peers. Safety remains a top priority for the company, as evidenced by the packs passing six stringent safety tests, including a nail penetration test conducted by the National Motor Vehicle Quality Inspection and Testing Center.
Zeekr asserts that the charging performance of its proprietary LFP batteries surpasses that of several competitors, even in lower temperatures during the winter. The Zeekr 007 sedan is set to be the first model equipped with these batteries, paving the way for future EVs from the brand.
In tandem with these technological advancements, Zeekr is strategically expanding its fast-charging infrastructure. With plans to grow its fast-charging network to 1,000 stations across China by the end of 2024, Zeekr aims to operate over 10,000 360+ kW charging piles by 2026. This significant investment contributes to the broader development of the EV charging ecosystem and reinforces Zeekr's position in the evolving electric vehicle market.
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As of November, Zeekr has opened 407 fast-charging stations, accommodating over 2,300 individual charging piles. This infrastructure expansion aligns with the company's comprehensive strategy to support its 800V architecture and fast-charging battery technology, per Electrek.
The Zeekr 007 sedan's official launch in two weeks is highly anticipated, offering enthusiasts and industry experts a closer look at the capabilities and performance of these innovative LFP batteries. This move signifies Zeekr's commitment to shaping the future of electric mobility through technological innovation and strategic infrastructure development.
Changing Dynamics in EV Battery Market
In a parallel development, Chinese electric vehicle powerhouse BYD is emerging as a formidable rival to CATL in the electric vehicle battery market, particularly in the low-cost segment. According to NIkkei, BYD has made significant strides in the LFP batteries market, securing a 41.1% market share between January and November.
The surge in LFP adoption in China, accounting for nearly 70% of the 339.7 gigawatt-hours installed in vehicles in the first 11 months of 2023, underscores the shifting dynamics in the EV battery market.
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