China’s Sodium-Ion Battery Makers Target Electric Two-Wheelers as Costs Remain a Challenge

Chinese battery manufacturers are expanding efforts to commercialize sodium-ion batteries for electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers, seeking an alternative to conventional lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries in a large but highly price-sensitive market.

Tianneng Battery Group launched a new range of sodium-ion batteries for electric two- and three-wheelers on October 20, including products designed to operate in extremely cold conditions. The launch reflects a broader effort by Chinese manufacturers to find commercial applications for sodium-ion technology beyond stationary energy storage, according to Caixin Global.

The company's new products cover capacities ranging from 24 to 72 ampere-hours. Caixin reported that a low-temperature version can charge at minus 30 degrees Celsius while retaining about 90% of its capacity. Such characteristics could be useful in regions where winter conditions affect battery performance, although actual results depend on operating conditions and the specific product.

Sodium-ion batteries use sodium rather than lithium as the main carrier of charge. Sodium is widely available, and the chemistry offers potential advantages in cost, low-temperature performance and supply-chain diversification. However, sodium-ion batteries generally have lower energy density than lithium-ion alternatives, meaning they may require more space or weight to store the same amount of energy.

For light electric vehicles, the technology occupies a difficult position between two established options. Lead-acid batteries remain attractive because of their low initial cost, while lithium-ion batteries offer higher energy density and have benefited from a more mature supply chain. Sodium-ion batteries must demonstrate enough practical and economic advantages to persuade manufacturers and consumers to switch.

The market is still at an early stage. Caixin reported that sodium-ion batteries accounted for less than 1% of the light motive-power battery market in 2025. The technology has gained more traction in stationary energy storage, which accounted for 67% of the 9 gigawatt-hours of sodium-ion battery shipments recorded globally in the first half of 2026, according to the report.

Chinese companies are nevertheless increasing their efforts. Yadea Group unveiled a sodium-ion battery compatible with existing lead-acid and lithium-battery vehicle models in March 2026, while a subsidiary of Chaowei Power began production at the first phase of a 2-gigawatt-hour sodium-ion battery project in June, Caixin reported.

Policy changes could also influence the competitive landscape. China resumed a 2% consumption tax on lithium-ion batteries on September 1, 2026, while sodium-ion batteries are exempt through the end of 2028. The tax on lithium-ion batteries is scheduled to rise to 4% in September 2027, according to Caixin. The difference could improve the relative price position of sodium-ion products, although taxes alone may not be enough to overcome manufacturing and supply-chain costs.

Sodium-ion batteries are not automatically cheaper to produce than lithium-ion batteries at current commercial scale. Manufacturing capacity, materials processing, cell design and production yields all influence the final cost. A less developed supply chain can offset the benefits of widely available raw materials.

For battery makers, the light electric vehicle market offers a potential route to scale. China's two- and three-wheeler sector serves commuters, delivery workers and other users who often prioritize affordability, durability and convenient charging. If sodium-ion batteries can meet these requirements at a competitive price, they may establish a niche in vehicles where maximum driving range is less important than reliability and cost.

The technology could also reduce dependence on lithium-related supply chains in some applications. However, its commercial success will depend on safety testing, product performance, consumer acceptance and the ability to manufacture cells consistently at scale.

China's battery industry is therefore exploring sodium-ion technology as a complement to existing chemistries rather than an immediate replacement for lithium-ion batteries. The coming years will show whether improvements in manufacturing and market demand can turn the technology into a mainstream option for light electric mobility.