CATL Introduces Dual-Pack Range Extension Architecture for Electric Freight Haulers in Beijing Presentation
CATL has showcased a dual-battery commercial vehicle powertrain in Beijing, coupling a standardized swappable pack with an auxiliary 77-kWh energy unit.
- 77-kWh
- more than 95%
- less than 5%
- 3C charging
What Happened
CATL debuted an innovative dual-electric propulsion layout for commercial heavy haulers during an industry event in Beijing, aiming to curb fleet operational expenditures and optimize replenishment logistics. The engineering format coordinates two distinct energy stores: a chassis-mounted standardized swappable battery alongside a dedicated 77-kWh range-extension unit positioned behind the driver cab.
Under traditional operating regimes, commercial fleet drivers routinely divert toward swapping terminals with approximately 30% charge remaining to avoid stranding, which leaves leased storage capacity underutilized. Incorporating the auxiliary battery elevates usable depth of discharge from roughly 70 percent upward beyond 95%, permitting freight haulers to reach terminals with less than 5% main reserve.
The secondary 77-kWh pack accommodates 3C charging rates and executes automated power failover switching within milliseconds under demanding haulage cycles. CATL refers to the design as a 1+X architecture, preserving universal compatibility across its Qiji battery-swapping system while permitting customizable auxiliary packs.
Why this matters
Heavy commercial logistics operators frequently sacrifice significant battery capacity returning early to swap locations to prevent roadside depletion. Creating an independent backup energy reservoir unlocks over 95 percent of swappable pack discharge depth while providing millisecond power failover for long-haul trucks.
Terms in This Story
- Qiji
- CATL's standardized commercial battery swapping infrastructure network developed for heavy-duty electric trucks.
- Depth of Discharge
- The percentage of a battery's total storage capacity that has been discharged relative to its overall capacity.
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