Does the Chery Ant use CATL batteries?
2 Answers
The new energy version of the Chery Ant model appeared in the MIIT's "Recommended Models Catalog for New Energy Vehicle Promotion and Application" (8th batch of 2019). Compared with the current model, there are no significant changes in the exterior design, and the driving range remains unchanged. However, the battery has been switched from ternary lithium batteries to lithium iron phosphate batteries, with battery cells provided by CATL. The Chery Ant is the best-selling A00-class pure electric vehicle in China. After becoming the sales champion in its class in 2018, from January to August this year, the Chery Ant eQ model once again topped the A00-class market sales with 27,032 units sold, surpassing the Baojun E200 (23,588 units) and the Ora R1 (20,866 units) that followed closely.
I reviewed some official data and personal teardown experiences of the Chery Ant. The battery suppliers for different model years have changed. Early versions, such as those before 2020, mostly used batteries from Gotion High-Tech or BYD. However, in recent years, higher-end models like the 2022 version have started adopting CATL battery packs. As a core component of electric vehicles, CATL is primarily chosen for its high energy density, reaching around 150Wh/kg, ensuring stable range performance. The downside is slightly higher costs, and replacement during repairs might be more expensive. Before purchasing, it's best to check the user manual or ask the dealership to confirm which battery supplier is used for the specific model to avoid future hassles. Chery made this change for supply chain optimization, adjusting battery solutions based on market feedback. Regarding battery lifespan, CATL claims their batteries can last over 8 years, and daily care like minimizing fast charging can help prolong performance.