#China #Beijing #sodium-ion battery #Hithium #∞Cell N162Ah

Introduction

On December 12, 2024, Hithium made waves in the energy sector with its launch of the
∞Cell N162Ah. Dubbed as the first sodium-ion battery tailored for utility-scale energy storage, this innovative product aims to redefine efficiency and safety in energy applications. Unveiled during the highly anticipated second Hithium Eco-Day in Beijing, China, the battery is designed to perform effectively across a wide range of conditions, marking a significant step forward in sustainable energy solutions.

Enhancing Energy Storage Technology

The introduction of sodium-ion battery technology offers numerous advantages over mainstream lithium-ion batteries. Traditional layered oxide and Prussian blue/white technologies tend to struggle with issues relating to cycle life and high-temperature performance, which limits their practical application in energy storage. In contrast, Hithium's technology, using polyanion (sodium iron ortho-pyrophosphate) cathodes, provides enhanced round-trip efficiency, low-temperature performance, and impressive charge/discharge rates.

The technical specifications of the ∞Cell N162Ah are nothing short of revolutionary. This battery employs a sodium iron ortho-pyrophosphate cathode partnered with a hard carbon anode, enabling it to provide remarkable longevity and superior performance even in extreme conditions. It boasts a retention rate of 94.2% after 4,000 cycles at 25°C under 1P power conditions, along with an anticipated cycle life exceeding 20,000 cycles at a state of health (SOH) of 70%. Notably, the battery's performance improves significantly in warmer conditions, showing over five times the cycle life at 45°C.

Safety First

Safety is a critical concern in battery technology, and Hithium has taken substantial steps to ensure the safety of the ∞Cell N162Ah. The battery has met rigorous safety standards set by GB/T 44265, which include tests for drop, crush, short circuit, and thermal runaway. Its compliance with GB/T 31485 standards and successful nail penetration tests further emphasize its robust safety profile.

An essential feature of the ∞Cell N162Ah is its remarkable shelf life. Even after six months of storage at 0V, the battery experiences zero capacity loss, maintaining cycling performance that matches that of newly manufactured batteries. This feature not only enhances the battery's longevity but also offers peace of mind in various storage and transport scenarios. The design minimizes risks associated with short circuits, ensuring no sparks or electrical hazards arise during assembly or transportation, thereby further enhancing safety standards.

Global Impact and Future Plans

Hithium's focus on innovation and safety positions the company as a leader in the burgeoning energy storage market. The launch of the ∞Cell N162Ah is just the beginning; Hithium plans to implement GWh mass production by Q4 2025, bridging the gap between current energy storage solutions and the demands of the future.

As global energy demands increase, the need for effective energy storage solutions becomes more pressing. Hithium’s innovative sodium-ion technology is poised to meet these challenges head-on, making significant contributions to the energy storage industry. By harnessing advanced materials and design principles, Hithium continues to explore and unlock the potential of sodium-ion battery technology. This reflects the company’s commitment to driving the evolution of energy storage and its role in a sustainable future.

Conclusion

The innovative launch of the ∞Cell N162Ah sodium-ion battery marks a pivotal moment in the energy storage realm, showcasing not just technological prowess, but a forward-thinking approach to environmental sustainability and safety. As Hithium forges ahead with its ambitious plans, the implications for the utility-scale energy sector are profound, promising both effectiveness and reliability for years to come.