A plug-in hybrid with more range than an EV? CATL announces game-changing PHEV battery tech that can deliver up to 400km of electric range, more than electric cars like the BYD Dolphin and GWM Ora

CATL, the world's largest EV battery manufacturer and the brand behind batteries fitted to Tesla, BMW, Toyota and Volkswagen electric models, has unveiled its new generation plug-in hybrid battery, and it can reportedly provide more range than some EVs.

Dubbed the Freevoy Super Hybrid Battery, the new battery will supposedly provide up to 400km of pure electric driving range, which is more range than current EVs such as the BYD Dolphin Dynamic and the GWM Ora Standard Range.

That figure also shatters the current electric driving ranges of Australia’s most popular plug-in hybrid models, such as the BYD Sealion 6 and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, which range from 80 to 90km.

It is worth mentioning, though, that the battery range is thought to be tested according to China’s more lenient CLTC cycle.

According to CATL, the “technological breakthrough” is credited to a suite of upgrades made to the firm's sodium-ion and lithium-ion battery technologies, which culminated with a higher level of energy density.

In addition to the long-range capability, CATL also said the battery will be the first to utilise 4C ultra-charging capabilities, providing up to 280km of range after just 10 minutes of charging.

It also delivers a higher level of cold weather performance, with battery efficiency at levels of -20 degrees celsius comparable to normal temperature performance.

CATL said the battery was developed to meet the demand of plug-in hybrid vehicles, which have witnessed a record surge in demand over the last 12 months.

In Australia alone, demand for plug-in hybrid vehicles has risen by 120.5 per cent compared to this time last year, with sales for 2024 clocked at 15,546 to September.

The battery is set to be rolled out across 30 hybrid models from Geely, GAC, Chery and VOYAH from 2025.