Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 27, Sinopec and LG Chem have signed a strategic cooperation agreement to jointly develop advanced cathode and anode materials for sodium-ion batteries. The partnership targets applications in energy storage systems and low-speed electric vehicles, with planned expansion across China and international markets.

Sodium-ion batteries offer several advantages compared with traditional lithium-ion technology, including lower cost due to abundant sodium resources, higher safety, improved performance in extreme temperatures, and enhanced thermal stability. These characteristics make them particularly suitable for urban low-speed electric vehicles, which require frequent stop-start operation, long daily usage, and reliable performance across varied weather conditions.

Recent technical progress has addressed earlier challenges related to cycle life and stability, increasing industry confidence in the technology’s commercial potential. China’s sodium-ion battery market is forecast to expand from 10 GWh in 2025 to 292 GWh by 2034, representing an average annual growth rate of approximately 45 percent. By 2030, China is expected to account for over 90 percent of global production capacity.

Hou Qijun, Chairman of Sinopec, said: “Sinopec is dedicated to building a world-leading clean energy and chemical company and becoming a major supplier of clean energy and advanced chemical materials. This strategic cooperation with LG Chem on sodium-ion battery materials will further strengthen both parties’ technological capabilities and market competitiveness, while contributing to the global energy transition and sustainable development.”

Shin Hak-Cheol, CEO of LG Chem, said: “As a global leader in battery materials, LG Chem has consistently provided differentiated solutions to customers in the electric mobility market. Through this partnership with Sinopec, we will jointly advance the development of next-generation battery materials and continue to reinforce our business portfolio in alignment with our customers’ future strategies.”

The collaboration combines Sinopec’s expertise in large-scale materials production with LG Chem’s advanced battery material technology, creating a strong foundation for accelerating innovation and commercialization of sodium-ion solutions. The agreement supports broader industry efforts to diversify battery chemistries and meet growing demand for cost-effective, safe, and sustainable energy storage options.