In a groundbreaking move, Chinese automakers BYD, Geely, and Changan have been awarded the prestigious State Science and Technology Progress Awards for their collaborative work on advanced battery management systems. This recognition highlights a significant shift in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, where competitors are sharing technology to push the boundaries of ultra-fast charging.
The awards specifically honor the companies’ joint efforts in developing software protocols for managing high-power charging and ensuring the safety and longevity of EV batteries. This collaboration involves not just the automakers but also research institutions like the China Automotive Engineering Research Institute and Calb, demonstrating a unified approach to advancing EV technology.
Standardized software for diverse battery technologies
The core of this technological breakthrough lies in the standardized software that monitors and manages battery performance. This software is designed to handle intense electrical currents and rapid temperature changes, ensuring that batteries remain within safe operating limits. The system can monitor battery cells multiple times per second, identifying and mitigating potential hot spots before they cause damage.
Despite the shared software, each automaker continues to develop unique battery technologies. For instance, BYD focuses on long, rectangular Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) cells that serve as structural components in their vehicles. In contrast, Changan is working on high-stability cells designed to last for 5,000 charging cycles. This collaboration allows for a common safety framework while fostering competition in battery innovation.
Geely’s short-blade batteries and flash charging
Geely has made significant strides with its short-blade batteries, which have been certified to handle a peak input of 1,093 kW. This technology is already in use, with approximately 100,000 vehicles equipped for flash charging operating on Chinese roads. The shared software protocols enable these vehicles to safely utilize high-power charging infrastructure, reducing charging times dramatically.
Changan’s Golden Shield technology, another recipient of the award, is already integrated into their Deepal passenger models. This technology emphasizes thermal management and battery durability, further validating the collaborative efforts in enhancing EV performance and safety.
Intelligent electric chassis and advanced manufacturing
The collaboration extends beyond battery management to include the development of intelligent electric chassis. Led by Tsinghua University in partnership with BYD, Geely, and Great Wall Motors, these chassis are designed to be fail-operational, ensuring vehicle control even in the event of digital line interferences. The systems also optimize regenerative braking, increasing urban range by up to 15%.
Additionally, the awards recognize advancements in precision welding technologies. Automated systems monitor and adjust welding currents in real-time, ensuring the quality and strength of structural components. This precision is crucial for supporting the high-power charging capabilities and
The standardization of these technologies is paving the way for the expansion of high-power charging networks in China. With charging stations capable of delivering up to 1,500 kW, the infrastructure is being designed to support the next generation of EVs, ensuring rapid and efficient charging.
This collaborative approach demonstrates a strategic shift in the Chinese EV industry, where shared technological frameworks enable rapid advancements while allowing individual companies to innovate and compete. The result is a robust ecosystem that supports the growth and adoption of electric vehicles, setting a new standard for the global automotive industry.
