China's BYD Lithium-Ion Batteries Make Their Rail Trial Debut on the ILSTC

Chongqing - On November 19, a train carrying BYD's lithium-ion batteries departed from Yuba Special Railway in Chongqing, heading south along the ILSTC to Guangxi's Beibu Gulf, marking China's first rail transport of lithium-ion batteries.

Yuba Special Railway, a key Chongqing station on the ILSTC, is the city's sole railway authorized to transport dangerous goods containers.

Li Yan, Deputy Director of the Port and Logistics Office of Chongqing Municipal People's Government, highlighted that Chongqing, the ILSTC logistics hub, leads the pilot rail transport of lithium-ion batteries, boosting logistics efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing trade.

Container trucks are waiting for loading at the Yuba Special Railway freight yard. (Photo/Zheng Ran)

"The blade battery factory in Chongqing is our first such facility," said Zhang Shoubo, Vice General Manager of BYD Battery Business Group. "Rail transport has the highest safety standards for lithium batteries. The ability to transport lithium-ion batteries by rail demonstrates their safety."

Zhang added that BYD leveraged its expertise during the trial to establish transport standards, including container testing, hazardous materials packaging, and safety protocols. This trial represents significant progress in expanding China's new energy product exports. Scaling rail transport could enhance shipping efficiency, complement sea freight, and strengthen global export capabilities.

Lithium batteries, classified as hazardous materials, have posed technical challenges for rail transport. To address this, a 40-foot lithium battery container has been developed, enabling their safe and efficient transportation by rail, according to Luo Kun, Manager of Chongqing Railway Logistics Center.

The reporter noted that the 40-foot lithium battery container is equipped with a bottom frame, smoke and temperature detection systems, pressure relief mechanisms, exhaust devices, and other safety features.

China's new energy vehicle industry has led global production and sales for eight years. In 2023, auto exports hit 4.91 million units, a 57.9% year-on-year rise, making China the top auto exporter. According to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM), exports now drive over 55% of the industry's sales growth.

On November 14, China achieved a milestone with its new energy vehicle production surpassing 10 million units. Chongqing, a major automotive hub, produced 2.32 million vehicles last year, making it the second-largest producer in the country. By 2027, the city is expected to contribute 10% of China’s vehicle exports, with an annual export value exceeding 100 billion yuan (around USD 13.81 billion).

(Huan Ran, as an intern, also contributed to the report)