Daimler Deepens Ties With Chinese Battery Maker CATL

Daimler is strengthening its ties with Chinese battery manufacturer CATL with the intention to produce electric vehicles with over 435 miles (700 km) of range.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Daimler said the partnership will see the two companies combine research while also locking in a supply of cells and entire battery systems.

“We intend to lead in battery technologies, so we are now combining our own research and development expertise with bold partners,” member of the board of management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, responsible for Daimler Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars COO, Markus Schäfer, said.

“We will integrate cutting-edge battery systems to create luxury cars with outstanding range, charging speed, safety and sustainability. Working with CATL will see us accelerate our transformation towards carbon-neutrality. CATL will be a major supplier securing capacity for the next generations of our EQ products in the years to come.”

Daimler and CATL have already started working on future batteries to be introduced in a host of vehicles in the coming few years. The goal is to shorten development cycles, significantly increase the ranges of future batteries through advanced in energy density and reduce charging times.

The upcoming Mercedes-Benz EQS will be the company’s first EV with more than 435 miles (700 km) of WLTP range and will be equipped with CATL cell modules.

“Daimler will continue to strengthen its global competitiveness and enhance efficiency by working with strong and innovative partners to pursue our future strategy, including electric mobility,” Hubertus Troska, member of the board of management of Daimler AG, responsible for Greater China, commented.

“In China, we have established strong cooperation with key industry and technology players over the years that have contributed not only to our strong growth momentum but also brought efficiency in production, purchasing and research and development.”

Daimler has battery supply deals with a host of other companies, including SK Innovation, LG Chem, and Farasis.