In Depth: Can CATL Stay Ahead?

CATL, the world’s largest electric-vehicle (EV) battery maker, is seeking new drivers of growth to help maintain a lead over its rivals and head off a challenge from automakers cutting into its lane.

Potential obstacles include a lack of product differentiation, price wars, and the threat of emerging technologies like solid-state batteries, which if eventually commercialized are expected to charge faster and last longer than those with conventional liquid electrolytes. Then there are the trade roadblocks, like stepped up European and U.S. import tariffs and even possible sanctions over forced labor and military concerns.