Sodium-Ion Heavy Trucks Hit the Road: FAW Jiefang's 15,000 km Trial

FAW Jiefang and Hina Battery have wrapped up a nearly seven-month field trial of a heavy-duty truck powered by sodium-ion batteries. The test vehicle logged more than 15,000 kilometers on real roads, underscoring the technology’s potential beyond passenger cars.

The collaboration marks a significant step in China’s push to diversify battery chemistries, reducing reliance on lithium and cobalt. Sodium-ion batteries are valued for their cost-effectiveness and cold-weather performance, though their energy density has traditionally limited them to smaller vehicles.

By proving durability in a heavy truck, the companies suggest sodium-ion could soon challenge lithium in commercial applications. The trial’s success may pave the way for faster adoption in logistics and freight, where lower lifecycle costs are critical.