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CATL Unveils TECTRANS II at IAA Transportation 2026

On September 15, 2026, in Hannover, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) introduced TECTRANS II, its next-generation battery solution designed for commercial vehicles. This development marks a significant step forward in the global electrification of heavy-duty transport, viewed as the third wave of the global energy transition by CATL’s leadership. Akin Li, the Executive President for CATL's Overseas Business, emphasized their readiness to harness this wave through innovative products, services, and partnerships.

The TECTRANS II is built on a modular platform designed specifically for the diverse operational needs of commercial vehicles. It can adapt to various use cases and meet different energy capacity requirements, offering impressive mileage of up to 1,000 kilometers. This flexibility allows for configurations that accommodate varying payloads, supporting both e-axles and central drive architectures for quick battery swapping.

Key Features of TECTRANS II

1. Modular Design: The platform's standardization allows OEMs to shorten vehicle development cycles by 50%, significantly reducing research and development costs, making the time-to-market for new models much faster.

2. Lifecycle Economics: The design aims to optimize vehicle lifecycle costs. By minimizing the need for unique battery systems for each model, manufacturers can lower development expenses, increase operational efficiency, and reduce initial investment risks.

3. Improved Battery Specs: TECTRANS II boasts a gravimetric energy density of 170 Wh/kg—about 13% above the industry average—enabling vehicles to carry more payload without increasing battery capacity. Additionally, it supports rapid charging capabilities, allowing the battery to reach 80% of its charge in just 25 minutes through Megawatt-level fast charging.

4. Safety Features: Recognizing the rigorous demands of real-world vehicle operation, TECTRANS II includes robust protective elements such as a warm-formed steel top cover capable of withstanding significant deformation, and an extremely stable base plate designed to absorb shocks effectively. It also incorporates advanced diagnostics to identify issues quickly, enhancing overall system reliability.

5. Environmental Compatibility: The battery's design takes into account long-term usage in harsh environments, such as coastal and cold areas, showcasing CATL's commitment to durability.

One of the most significant aspects of this launch is CATL's collaboration with the DHL Group, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership aims to develop green freight corridors across Europe, leveraging DHL's logistical acumen and operational expertise alongside CATL's battery technology and electric vehicle ecosystems. The collaboration also includes joint initiatives with OEMs to develop bespoke electric vehicles tailored to specific operational contexts.

Zhu Lingbo, the Chief Technology Officer of CATL’s Global Business Unit, reiterated that the electrification of commercial vehicles represents a long-term horizon of over a decade. With an unwavering commitment to technological advancement and product quality, CATL positions itself as a reliable partner in accelerating the global transition towards sustainable freight and logistics solutions.

The introduction of TECTRANS II at such a prominent event not only highlights CATL's innovative spirit but underscores its dedication to shaping the future of transportation through electrification. As the industry pivots to greener solutions, TECTRANS II sets a new benchmark for efficiency, safety, and reliability in the world of commercial vehicles.