World's Biggest EV Battery Maker Explores Theoretical 1,243-Mile Range

World's Biggest EV Battery Maker Explores Theoretical 1,243-Mile Range

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Going the Extra 1,000 Miles

Electric vehicles have improved over the years, with the EPA reporting that the average range of new EVs reached 292 miles in 2024, nearly four times the average in 2011. Still, range anxiety remains a concern among prospective buyers, especially in states where charging infrastructure isn't as well-developed as in states like California.

As such, CATL's exploration of lithium-air batteries sounds like a compelling prospect. CarNewsChina reported that this battery technology could allow EVs to travel up to 2,000 km (1,243 miles) on a single charge. On paper, that's like driving from Los Angeles well into Texas without stopping to recharge. However, several challenges remain before the technology can make it into production.

Breathing Room for Batteries

The aforementioned range figure is only theoretical, not a demonstrated or officially confirmed range. It is based on a theoretical specific energy of around 3,505 Wh/kg, potentially several times higher than that of solid-state batteries, which are being developed as an...