- Chinese researchers developed an all-iron flow battery capable of more than 6,000 charge-discharge cycles without measurable capacity loss.
- Sodium-ion batteries are gaining traction in China due to lower material costs and reduced dependence on lithium and cobalt.
- Alternative battery technologies could improve the sustainability and affordability of renewable energy storage systems.
China is leading sodium-ion battery innovation, and Chinese carmakers were the first in the world to launch sodium-powered cars, although their limited range remains a challenge. However, in April 2025, the world’s biggest battery manufacturer, the Chinese firm CATL, announced plans to mass-produce sodium-ion batteries for heavy-duty trucks and cars under a new brand, Naxtra.
Alternative battery technologies are still in the nascent stage of development, with more testing and innovation required to get them to the performance required for their commercial release. However, recent breakthroughs, mainly in China, suggest that we may soon be adopting sodium-ion or all-iron flow batteries as an alternative to lithium-ion batteries.