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0 of 8 readThis week's EV news centered on battery tech and charging: Geely's 2.25 MW ultra-fast chargers are already live in five Chinese cities, GM advances LMR cell mass production, and BYD tests a solid-state flagship. Meanwhile, China's September NEV retail sales fell 20%, and Stellantis paused French production over battery shortages.
Geely's 2.25 MW ultra-fast chargers already live in five Chinese cities
Geely's ultra-fast charging network, peaking at 2,250 kW, has launched in five Chinese cities under the name 'Smart Charging C12,' with 15,000 sites planned by end of next year. The fastest US charger, at 750 kW, has been pushed to next year.
Why it mattersCharging speed is becoming the new EV battleground, and the US-China gap in ultra-fast charging deployment could reshape global competitiveness.
GM to mass-produce prismatic LMR cells with 33% higher energy density than LFP
GM says it will be the world's first to mass-produce prismatic LMR battery cells, delivering about 33% higher energy density than LFP at comparable cost. Ultium Cells will convert its Spring Hill, Tennessee plant for production, with cells going into GM EVs from 2028.
Why it mattersIf LMR cells deliver as promised, GM could cut EV costs while boosting range, reshaping its competitive position in electrification.
BYD tests ultra-luxury flagship EV with solid-state battery
BYD said its flagship sedan will feature 'unprecedented disruptive technology' and will reportedly be the first EV to use its solid-state batteries, with coach doors.
Why it mattersIf BYD brings solid-state batteries to a production model first, it could accelerate the industry's shift to next-generation technology.
China NEV retail sales fall 20% in first 27 days of September
China's NEV retail sales totaled 827,000 units in September 1-27, accounting for 65.7% of passenger car sales, with the year-on-year decline deepening.
Why it mattersAs the world's largest NEV market, China's deepening sales decline will ripple through global automakers' output and battery demand.
Battery shortage halts Stellantis production in France for at least a week
Stellantis is halting production at its French plants in Sochaux, Rennes and Mulhouse for at least a week, with two cases caused by supplier ACC's inability to meet demand for nickel-based long-range batteries.
Why it mattersBattery supply bottlenecks are directly hitting vehicle output, highlighting the fragility of Europe's battery supply chain.
Gotion and VW plan $3.67B investment in European battery supply chain
Gotion and Volkswagen plan battery projects in Spain and Slovakia with combined annual capacity of 37.5 GWh, plus a cathode materials project in Morocco. Gotion also targets 400 Wh/kg for its solid-state Jinshi cells and long-term costs of about $150/kWh.
Why it mattersChinese battery makers expanding into Europe will reshape the region's local supply landscape and influence cost curves.
NIO Q3 deliveries rise 25% but September growth slows to 7.7%
NIO delivered 109,178 vehicles in Q3, up 25.4% year-on-year and within guidance. But September deliveries grew just 7.7% to 37,408 units, the slowest pace of 2026, as the ONVO brand fell 43%; the ES8 delivered 10,542 units.
Why it mattersNIO's multi-brand strategy is diverging, with ONVO's decline dragging overall growth and testing its upcoming product cycle.
Tesla upgrades China Model 3 with 16-inch screen and V2L, US left out
Tesla China is upgrading every Model 3 with a 16-inch touchscreen and a new light gray interior, and enabling up to 2.2 kW of AC power export across its Model 3 and Model Y lineup. The US Model 3 keeps a 15.4-inch display and lacks the feature.
Why it mattersGrowing configuration gaps between markets show Tesla accelerating localized upgrades under competitive pressure in China.