CATL launches Tener sodium‑ion energy storage system in Munich

Chinese battery giant Contemporary Amperex Technology Co Ltd (CATL) unveiled its new Tener sodium‑ion energy storage system at a product launch in Munich. The modular system offers over 30 MWh per unit, with 34 modules delivering a total of 1 GWh. CATL claims the batteries can be recharged up to 15,000 times, providing a lifespan of 25‑30 years before capacity falls to 70 %. They operate safely at temperatures down to –20 °C, resist 40 % more physical pressure, reduce fire‑triggering gas by 35 % and emit only 65 dB of noise. Internal power consumption is 1 % of industry average, and efficiency is enhanced by a smart liquid‑cooling system.

CATL announced production capacity expansions, including two new factories in Munich slated for 200 GWh annually, a 40 GWh facility in Fuding City and a planned 160 GWh addition in Jining. The Tener system is set to enter the Chinese market in September 2026 with an initial 1 GWh delivery, followed by a global rollout in 2027. The rollout aims to challenge lithium‑ion dominance by offering a cheaper, abundant sodium‑based alternative for stationary energy storage and potentially for electric vehicles.