China: CATL redefines safety with a chassis tested at 120 km/h

CATL, in China, unveils a chassis capable of withstanding frontal collisions at 120 km/h, a breakthrough transforming automotive safety standards.

Share:

Comprehensive energy news coverage, updated nonstop

Annual subscription

8.25$/month*

*billed annually at 99$/year for the first year then 149,00$/year ​

Unlimited access • Archives included • Professional invoice

OTHER ACCESS OPTIONS

Monthly subscription

Unlimited access • Archives included

5.2$/month*
then 14.90$ per month thereafter

FREE ACCOUNT

3 articles offered per month

FREE

*Prices are excluding VAT, which may vary depending on your location or professional status

Since 2021: 35,000 articles • 150+ analyses per week

**ARTICLE TITLE**
China: CATL redefines safety with a chassis tested at 120 km/h

**HEADLINE**
CATL, in China, unveils a chassis capable of withstanding frontal collisions at 120 km/h, a breakthrough transforming automotive safety standards.

**BODY OF THE ARTICLE**

In China, CATL has introduced an innovative chassis designed to meet the growing demands of automotive safety. During extreme-speed tests, the chassis demonstrated its ability to absorb frontal impacts at 120 km/h, without risks of fire or explosion.

These performances far exceed the standards of the China New Car Assessment Program (C-NCAP), which typically limits collision tests to 56 km/h. A frontal collision at 120 km/h generates 4.6 times more energy than standard tests, presenting complex challenges in design and structural resistance.

A technology focused on innovation

The technology used is based on a complete integration of the battery and chassis, known as Cell-to-Chassis (CTC). This approach improves structural rigidity while optimizing energy distribution in case of impact.

To enhance safety, CATL also incorporated advanced materials such as marine-grade steel and aerospace-grade aluminum, as well as a high-voltage disconnection system that activates in 0.01 seconds during a collision.

A strategic impact on the industry

This innovation opens significant prospects for the automotive industry. CATL estimates that this technology will reduce development cycles for electric vehicles from 36 months to 12 or 18 months. It also promotes increased modularity, facilitating the adaptation of chassis to different models and use cases.

By pushing the limits of safety and customization, CATL positions itself as a key player in the transformation of the electric vehicle market.

BHP sells a minority stake in its Western Australia Iron Ore power network to Global Infrastructure Partners for $2 billion, retaining strategic control while securing long-term funding for its mining expansion.
More than $80bn in overseas cleantech investments in one year reveal China’s strategy to export solar and battery overcapacity while bypassing Western trade barriers by establishing industrial operations across the Global South.
Exxaro increases its energy portfolio in South Africa with new wind and solar assets to secure power supply for operations and expand its role in independent generation.
Plenitude acquires full ownership of ACEA Energia for up to €587mn, adding 1.4 million customers to its portfolio and reaching its European commercial target ahead of schedule.
ABB invests in UK-based start-up OctaiPipe to strengthen its smart energy-saving solutions for data centre infrastructure.
Enbridge has announced a 3% increase in its annual dividend for 2026 and expects steady revenue growth, with up to CAD20.8bn ($15.2bn) in EBITDA and CAD10bn ($7.3bn) in capital investment.
Axess Group has signed a memorandum of understanding with ARO Drilling to deliver asset integrity management services across its fleet, integrating digital technologies to optimise operations.
South African state utility Eskom expects a second consecutive year of profit, supported by tariff increases, lower debt levels and improved operations.
Equans Process Solutions brings together its expertise to support highly technical industrial sectors with an integrated offer covering the entire project lifecycle in France and abroad.
Zenith Energy centres its strategy on a $572.65mn ICSID claim against Tunisia, an Italian solar portfolio and uranium permits, amid financial strain and reliance on capital markets.
Ivanhoe Mines expects a 67% increase in electricity consumption at its copper mine in DRC, supported by new hydroelectric, solar and imported supply sources.
Q ENERGY France and the Association of Rural Mayors of France have entered a strategic partnership to develop local electrification and support France's energy sovereignty through rural territories.
ACWA Power, Badeel and SAPCO have secured $8.2bn in financing to develop seven solar and wind power plants with a combined capacity of 15 GW in Saudi Arabia, under the national programme overseen by the Ministry of Energy.
Hydro-Québec reports a 29% increase in net income over nine months in 2025, supported by a profitable export strategy and financial gains from an asset sale.
Antin Infrastructure Partners is preparing to sell Idex in early 2026, with four North American funds competing for a strategic asset in the European district heating market.
EDF could sell up to 100% of its US renewables unit, valued at nearly €4bn ($4.35bn), to focus on French nuclear projects amid rising debt and growing political uncertainty in the United States.
Norsk Hydro plans to shut down five extrusion plants in Europe in 2026, impacting 730 employees, as part of a restructuring aimed at improving profitability in a pressured market.
The City of Paris has awarded Dalkia the concession for its urban heating network, a €15bn contract, ousting long-time operator Engie after a five-year process.
NU E Power Corp. completed the purchase of 500 MW in energy assets from ACT Mid Market Ltd. and appointed Broderick Gunning as Chief Executive Officer, marking a new strategic phase for the company.
Commodities trader BB Energy has cut over a dozen jobs in Houston and will shift some administrative roles to Europe as part of a strategic reorganisation.

All the latest energy news, all the time

Annual subscription

8.25$/month*

*billed annually at 99$/year for the first year then 149,00$/year ​

Unlimited access - Archives included - Pro invoice

Monthly subscription

Unlimited access • Archives included

5.2$/month*
then 14.90$ per month thereafter

*Prices shown are exclusive of VAT, which may vary according to your location or professional status.

Since 2021: 30,000 articles - +150 analyses/week.