As the world’s largest battery manufacturer, CATL has established a significant supply deal with Tesla and also supplies batteries to other major automakers such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz Group AG. Despite challenges arising from U.S.-China trade disputes and restrictions on Chinese technology in American-made products, CATL is finding ways to work around these hurdles. Through licensing, royalty, and services agreements, CATL partners with other companies to license their battery technology for a fee.
CATL is currently in talks with up to 20 U.S. and European automakers to potentially establish licensing agreements similar to the one with Ford. Additionally, CATL and Tesla are collaborating on new electrochemical technology to develop faster-charging batteries. Tesla’s goal is to retain its market share in the growing global EV battery market and to produce an electric vehicle priced below $25,000.
Robin Zeng, founder of CATL, highlighted the potential for cost reduction in the $25,000 car aimed by Tesla. He also confirmed reports that Tesla plans to open a small battery-manufacturing facility in Nevada using CATL equipment, with the Chinese company’s staff assisting in setting up the equipment. These collaborative efforts between Tesla and CATL are paving the way for advancements in electric vehicle battery technology.