Bosch / CATL Alliance Aims for a Leading Position in 48-V Batteries

Bosch and Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) have concluded a long-term strategic cooperation agreement. The partners are going to jointly specify high-performance battery cells. CATL will then design, develop, and manufacture these cells in accordance with Bosch requirements. The cells are to be used in the 48-Volt battery developed by Bosch.

This battery is the core element of 48-Volt hybrid powertrain systems, whose efficiency is making them globally ever more important. In joining this alliance, the supplier of technology and services is also securing its long-term sourcing for battery cells.

“We have to understand battery cells, but we do not have to make them ourselves,” says Dr. Stefan Hartung, member of the board of management and chairman of the Mobility Solutions business sector. “With CATL, we have brought an established cell specialist for lithium-ion batteries on board as a partner. In combination with our systems know-how and expertise in battery management, we will extend our strong position in the 48-Volt battery market.”

"Bosch has a broad electric mobility portfolio, as well as deep understanding of and expertise in the automobile industry," said Zhou Jia, the president of CATL. "The strong alliance between CATL and Bosch will be a driving force in realizing our shared vision of the future, where we see energy efficient mobility as a common feature of daily life for people everywhere."

CATL, one of the world's leading experts of lithium-ion battery is currently building a battery factory in Erfurt, Germany. For Bosch, this alliance is another step on the path to market leadership in electromobility. Numerous global automakers already use Bosch’s 48-Volt battery.