In a groundbreaking move set to reshape the electric vehicle (EV) landscape, JAC Motors, the Chinese automaker backed by Volkswagen, is gearing up to launch the first mass-produced EV equipped with a sodium-ion battery under its new Yiwei brand. This technological leap promises not only affordability but also enhanced performance in cold weather, marking a significant stride towards accelerating mass EV adoption.
Sodium-ion Technology Takes Center Stage: JAC Motors’ latest innovation involves the use of sodium-ion batteries, a departure from the conventional lithium-ion technology. While sodium-ion batteries exhibit a lower energy density and are in the early stages of development, their cost-effectiveness and superior performance in cold climates make them a compelling choice for the future of electric mobility.
The Birth of Yiwei Brand and Volkswagen’s Influence: Launched in 2023, the Yiwei brand represents a new chapter for JAC Motors. With Volkswagen holding a 75 percent stake in JAC and a 50 percent ownership of JAC’s parent company, Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Group Holdings (JAG), the collaboration is a unique blend of Chinese government involvement and private industry. This partnership positions JAC Motors as a key player in the global push towards sustainable transportation.
The Yiwei EV: A Sodium-Powered Revelation: The upcoming Yiwei EV, expected to hit the roads in January, appears to be a rebranded version of the Sehol E10X hatchback. This model boasts a 252 km (157 miles) range with a 25 kWh capacity, 120 Wh/kg energy density, and 3C to 4C charging capabilities. The sodium-ion variant is a testament to JAC Motors’ commitment to diversifying its offerings and embracing cutting-edge battery technologies.
Yiwei 3 and the Sodium-ion Promise: JAC Motors had previously showcased the Yiwei 3 at the Shanghai Auto Show, featuring an LFP lithium battery. The sodium-ion variant, set to debut with the Yiwei EV, underscores the company’s dedication to providing consumers with a spectrum of clean energy options. The move towards sodium-ion technology aligns with the industry’s quest for sustainable and economically viable solutions.
HiNA Battery’s Contribution to Sodium-ion Excellence: The sodium-ion cells powering the Yiwei EV are sourced from HiNA Battery, a move that emphasizes JAC Motors’ commitment to quality and reliability. The cylindrical sodium-ion cells are assembled in the company’s modular UE (Unitized Encapsulation) honeycomb structure, mirroring the innovations seen in CATL’s CTP and BYD’s Blade. This layout ensures greater stability and performance, setting a new standard in sodium-ion battery implementation.
JAC Motors’ foray into sodium-ion battery technology with the Yiwei EV marks a pivotal moment in the electric vehicle industry. As the first mass-produced EV of its kind, the Yiwei EV not only showcases the brand’s commitment to innovation but also positions sodium-ion technology as a promising avenue for the future of clean and accessible energy. With Volkswagen’s backing and a strategic focus on cutting-edge battery solutions, JAC Motors is set to leave an indelible mark on the EV landscape, driving us towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.
