The ability to drive an EV from Melbourne to Sydney on a single charge could soon be a reality if details about BYD’s second-generation ‘Blade’ battery prove to be true.
News out of China suggests BYD’s battery subsidiary, FinDreams, is about to launch the second-generation of its innovative Blade battery, which promises a big boost in energy density and the possibility of more than 1000km of range. The new Blade battery pack is said to increase energy density by 25 per cent compared with the first-gen version, meaning the new battery could use fewer cells to achieve the same range and deliver smaller and lighter battery packs.
Conversely, more range could be achieved from a similar-sized battery, leading to speculation the second-gen Blade will deliver a range of around 1000km. If these numbers are accurate, it means the second-gen Blade will have similar range to highly anticipated ‘solid-state’ batteries currently in development. However, while solid-state technology is still years away, BYD’s new battery tech will enter production later this year.
The original Blade battery currently powers every model in BYD’s Australian line-up and also some other EVs from different OEMs. It differs from traditional lithium-ion batteries in both its chemistry make-up and construction to deliver greater safety, higher energy density and longer lifespans.
First-generation Blade batteries have an energy density of 150 watt hours per kilogram (Wh/kg) but the new version is said to increase this to 190Wh/kg. BYD currently sells three cars in Australia, with its Seal sedan boasting the highest Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) range at 570km from an 82.6kWh battery. The Atto 3 small SUV and Dolphin hatch have claimed WLTP ranges of 420km and 427km respectively.
For comparison, the Tesla Model Y, Australia’s best-selling EV, currently has 629km of WLTP range. Aussie buyers will soon have the choice of more EVs with ever-longer driving ranges, including the 2025 Porsche Taycan, which arrives in July and can travel 678km between charges.
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