On April 2, 2025, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) and China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec) signed a comprehensive cooperation framework agreement in Beijing. This strategic partnership aims to jointly construct a nationwide battery-swapping network, enhancing the infrastructure for new energy vehicles (NEVs) across China.
The agreement sets a target to build no less than 500 battery-swapping stations within this year, with a long-term goal of expanding to 10,000 stations nationwide. Leveraging Sinopec’s extensive network of fueling stations and energy infrastructure, combined with CATL’s advanced battery technology and swapping systems, the collaboration seeks to address range limitations of passenger cars and heavy-duty trucks, providing efficient and convenient energy replenishment solutions.
CATL’s subsidiary, Times Electric Service, has already partnered with several major automakers to develop NEV models equipped with battery-swapping capabilities. Similarly, Times Qiji, another subsidiary, has collaborated with prominent truck manufacturers to introduce over 30 chassis models compatible with battery-swapping technology.
This collaboration signifies a pivotal step towards establishing a standardized and scalable battery-swapping ecosystem in China, aligning with the nation’s goals for carbon neutrality and sustainable transportation. The initiative is expected to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and further accelerate the adoption of NEVs across the country.
Before joining forces with Sinopec, CATL had also made significant strides in the NEV sector. On March 18, 2025, CATL announced a partnership with NIO Inc. to jointly create the world’s largest battery-swapping service network for passenger vehicles. This collaboration will further enhance the infrastructure needed to support the widespread adoption of electric vehicles and battery-swapping technology.
As the projects with both Sinopec and NIO progress, further developments and updates are anticipated, reflecting the dynamic nature of these significant partnerships in the NEV sector.