Large issues are available small packages apparently, and BYD Seagull could be the harbinger of the long run. This 3.7-meter-long electrical hatchback from BYD is the primary automobile to function a sodium-ion battery and is formally priced at $11,600 at present trade charges.
There are two variations of the hatchback accessible – both a 55 kW or 75 kW electrical motor. Each variations have the identical 38 kWh BYD LFP battery able to 405 km CLTC licensed vary. Native stories confirmed {that a} second, sodium-ion battery shall be supplied with a smaller 30 kWh capability and 305 km of vary. BYD plans to suit sodium-ion batteries to all of its fashions priced beneath RMB 200,000 ($29,000) as soon as its manufacturing capability has elevated.
BYD Seagull is a 4-seat 5-door hatchback, it’s barely smaller than the Wuling Bingo which begins at RMB 59,800 or $8,700. In response to native information, BYD sellers already can provide reductions to convey the value of the Seagull right down to RMB 65,000 ($9,500).
Sodium-ion batteries are beginning to achieve recognition. BYD Seagull shouldn’t be the primary automobile to function this new know-how. That title goes to Sehol EX10 made by VW’s three way partnership with JAC. The automobile comes with a 25 kWh battery pack with an vitality density of 120 Wh/kg and has a 252 km vary.
Whereas sodium-ion batteries are cheaper to fabricate and are much less affected by chilly temperatures, there are nonetheless loads of kinks that want ironing out. For now, their charging charge is slower and so they have decrease vitality density. They’re right here to remain although, and that is solely the primary technology of them.
All we want is to look again on the first technology of lithium-ion EV batteries to appreciate how far now we have already come. The sodium-ion batteries will progress a lot faster because of the business expertise gained during the last decade or two.
