China Railway has taken a significant step forward in the transportation of electric vehicle (EV) lithium batteries by conducting its first large-scale rail transport trial. On Tuesday, three trains loaded with lithium batteries departed from Chongqing Municipality, Sichuan Province, and Guizhou Province in southwest China.
As the world’s largest producer of lithium batteries, China has predominantly relied on sea or road transport for exporting these batteries, classified as dangerous goods due to the risk of burning or exploding if jolted. This trial marks a pivotal moment in enhancing the efficiency and safety of lithium battery transportation.
“For the trial run, we are using a new type of container designed solely for the transport of lithium batteries,” said Jia Ping, deputy general manager of China Railway Chengdu Group Co., Ltd. “The containers are made of non-combustible materials and equipped with smoke and temperature detectors and venting devices.”
Rail transport offers a larger capacity than road transport and is faster than sea transport, which will facilitate the export of Chinese lithium batteries, Jia noted.
The initiative has been welcomed by Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL), a leading Chinese battery manufacturer. “This trial rail transportation is further recognition of the safety performance of domestic lithium batteries,” said Liu Jie, head of CATL’s supply chains and logistics. “Rail transport opens up a new channel for the efficient transportation of lithium batteries. It will boost our exports by reducing logistics costs and improving logistics efficiency.”
This trial not only underscores China’s commitment to advancing its EV industry but also highlights the country’s efforts to enhance global supply chain logistics. The successful implementation of rail transport for lithium batteries could set a new standard for the industry and pave the way for more sustainable and efficient exports.
Reference(s):
China Railway launches rail transport trial for EV batteries
cgtn.com
