A memorandum of understanding to expand an existing battery supply deal was signed by the leading battery manufacturer CATL and the Vietnamese electric vehicle automaker VinFast, as per CnEVPost.
Madam Le Thi Thu Thuy, Vingroup Vice Chairwoman and VinFast Global CEO stated:
“VinFast connects global intelligence to promote research and production of smart electric vehicles. Collaboration with CATL – a global leader of new energy innovative technologies – is the next development milestone of VinFast in applying advanced technology to enhance driving range and experience while offering competitive pricing, making smart electric vehicles more efficient and accessible to everyone.”
The businesses will explore CATL-integrated intelligent chassis (CIIC) skateboard platforms for EVs. They will also look into other areas related to EV and battery technologies through this new strategic partnership.
Partnership goal
The signing was witnessed by Pham Nhat Vuong, Chairman of VinGroup and VinFast, and CATL founder and Chairman Robin Zeng.
Through its technologies, the Chinese battery giant aims to support VinFast’s expansion to international markets. CATL will expand on its current CTP (cell-to-pack) product alliance and seek different prospects for further collaboration.
CATL stated in a press release that battery packs, electric motors, and other vital components are integrated into a single layer at the bottom of the CIIC skateboard chassis. While increasing cabin space reduces purchase costs and energy usage.
According to Electrek, the partnership covers the manufacturing of its brand-new M3P cells before their release the following year and CATL’s “Qilin” third-generation CTP battery architecture. The Qilin boasts a record-breaking energy density of up to 255 Wh/kg and a volume utilization efficiency of 72%.
Furthermore, CATL will also explore additional prospects to collaborate with VinFast to accelerate the global shift to electric vehicles and encourage battery innovation. As per the press release:
“By leveraging CATL’s cutting-edge batteries, VinFast’s innovative EVs will reach new heights in terms of range, safety, and intelligent driving. The cooperation will also enable CATL to enhance its global footprint, especially in emerging markets, and promote the application of new EV technologies. The elevated cooperation will enable both companies to promote innovation of battery technologies and global e-mobility, contributing to global drive for energy transition and carbon neutrality goals.”
The partnership is expected to enable the expansion of VinFast’s global presence, particularly in developing countries.