In the world of automotive innovation, timing and strategy are crucialOn June 27, 2023, Geely Automobile made headlines with the unveiling of its latest product, the “Shen Dun” short blade batteryThis development was not only a testament to Geely’s successful venture into the lithium battery manufacturing sector but also a strategic move to outpace its long-standing rival, BYD, in the burgeoning market for short blade batteries.

This announcement comes on the heels of Geely's earlier challenges regarding engine thermal efficiency, marking a significant comeback in a competitive landscape that often resembles a high-stakes chess matchThe introduction of the “Shen Dun” battery could potentially shift the balance of power within the electric vehicle (EV) sector, positioning Geely as a formidable player against giants like BYD.

The Shen Dun battery utilizes a lithium iron phosphate chemistry, achieving an energy density of 192 Wh/kg, which is an impressive figure within the industry

In a market where battery dimensions can significantly influence design flexibility, Geely’s short battery measures 58 cm in length, drastically shorter than BYD’s 96 cm long blade batteryThis compactness allows for versatile configurations across various vehicle types including sedans, commercial vehicles, SUVs, and MPVs, enhancing usability and integration.

When it comes to safety, Geely seems to have gone the extra mileTheir Shen Dun battery has passed rigorous testing, including the “eight-needle puncture test,” where multiple steel probes simultaneously breached the cell, causing a short circuit without igniting or explodingSuch robust safety measures could instill consumer confidence, addressing frequent concerns associated with EV battery reliability.

Moreover, the fast-charging capabilities of the Shen Dun battery are noteworthy

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It reportedly charges 1.5 times faster than its longer counterpart, allowing drivers to replenish their battery from 10% to 80% in just 17 minutes and 4 secondsAdditionally, the battery maintains a capacity of over 90% even in freezing temperatures of -30°C, showcasing its adaptability under harsh conditions.

The Shen Dun battery is expected to make its debut in the Geely Galaxy E5, an all-electric SUV set to launch in early AugustLi Chuanhai, Vice President of Geely Automobile Group, confirmed that the decision to adopt the short blade format was based on extensive researchThe choice reflects an understanding that longer batteries could lead to greater internal resistance and heat generation, increasing potential safety risks and performance decline.

Interestingly, while Geely has refrained from overtly criticizing BYD, the implications of its statements are clear

The competitive tension between the two firms has only intensified with Geely’s new release.

The rivalry between Geely and BYD is emblematic of the broader struggles in the Chinese automotive industryRecent events at the 2024 China Automotive Chongqing Forum highlighted this contemporary clash of titansExecutives from both companies engaged in a rich debate regarding market strategies and philosophiesWang Chuanfu, BYD's chairman, articulated that fierce competition, or “jujitsu,” is the essence of market dynamics, leading to innovation and prosperity.

Contrastingly, Li Shufu, Geely’s founder, warned against the dangers of endless “involution” in the industryHe argued that such relentless competition leads to cost-cutting, decreased product quality, and unregulated practices

This impassioned discussion was further fueled by recent developments in battery technology, particularly when BYD proudly announced its fifth-generation DM technology, which boasts a stellar thermal efficiency of 46.06%.

However, it appears that Geely had been waiting in the wingsOn the heels of BYD’s announcement, Geely revealed that it had already achieved a thermal efficiency rating of 46.1% back in 2023, declaring its own achievement on social media platforms, thus sparking a renewed contest for supremacy.

Such back-and-forth reveals a competitive landscape that is as intricate as it is dynamicEach piece of news can shift public perception and influence market positions, making real-time strategy a core necessityGeely’s advance with the Shen Dun battery signifies a calculated leap towards reclaiming its narrative of innovation and strength against BYD—a chance to serve up its own version of a lethal blow, this time in the battery arena.

While both companies have roots in low-end market production, their respective journeys towards premium offerings and electric vehicles have showcased different approaches

Despite being a latecomer in battery technology, Geely has been proactive in its investmentsFrom March 2019, Geely has initiated 12 battery projects across China, amounting to over 130 billion RMB by 2023.

In 2023, Geely’s Zeekr brand debuted its 800V lithium iron phosphate ultra-fast-charging battery, demonstrating notable advancements in charging efficiency, capable of boosting a range of over 500 kilometers in just 15 minutesWith a utilization rate of 83.7%, such innovations highlight Geely’s forward momentum in the electric vehicle market.

However, industry concerns linger regarding established automakers like Geely entering the lithium battery spaceThe market is currently dominated by a handful of players, with CATL and BYD capturing a combined market share of over 70%. Their foothold creates a landscape that could prove detrimental for new entrants.

The competitive advantages of firms like CATL and BYD endure, given their comprehensive production chains and diverse product lines spanning energy storage to lithium extraction