China has launched its first large-scale trial of transporting lithium batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) by rail, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s battery export capabilities.
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, this move signifies a major step forward for China because these batteries, classified as dangerous goods, were previously transported only by sea or road.
Transporting lithium batteries poses risks since they can burn or explode if jolted. To address this, the trial employs new containers specifically designed for lithium battery transport. “For the trial run, we are using a new type of container made of non-combustible materials and equipped with smoke and temperature detectors and venting devices,” said Jia Ping, deputy general manager of China Railway Chengdu Group Co., Ltd.
Rail transport offers larger capacity than road transport and is faster than sea transport, potentially facilitating the export of Chinese lithium batteries. Industry leaders have welcomed the trial. “This trial rail transportation is further recognition of the safety performance of domestic lithium batteries,” said Liu Jie, head of supply chains and logistics at battery giant CATL. “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.”
Reference(s):
China Railway launches rail transport trial for EV batteries
cgtn.com
