Contemporary Ampere Technology Co. Limited (CATL), the world’s leading electric vehicle battery manufacturer, is making significant inroads into the skateboard chassis market, aiming to accelerate the electric transformation of the automotive industry. This strategic move, exemplified by its collaboration with Changan Mazda, highlights the potential of integrated intelligent chassis to lower development barriers and speed up model launches for a wider range of automakers.

CATL’s CIIC (CATL Integrated Intelligent Chassis), or skateboard chassis, is designed with a decoupled upper and lower body, modular subsystem design, and standardised interfaces. This architecture allows rapid adaptation across multiple vehicle models and significantly shortens the vehicle development cycle. This approach is particularly beneficial for companies looking to quickly enter or expand their presence in the electric vehicle market.

While the skateboard chassis offers compelling advantages in reducing complexity and cost of vehicle development, its widespread adoption by established car manufacturers has faced challenges due to their reluctance to outsource core technologies that define their brand and product differentiation. The chassis is a critical component influencing a vehicle’s performance, handling, and safety, making it a closely guarded intellectual property for many traditional automakers.

However, the collaboration with Changan Mazda demonstrates a growing interest in leveraging CATL’s expertise. This partnership aims to provide high-quality, safe new energy vehicles and is a model for “technology integration + efficient development” in the industry.

Despite the potential for broader adoption, the primary customer base for skateboard chassis has historically been limited to unmanned vehicles, modified cars, and robotaxi companies. While expanding, these niche markets may not provide the immediate scale for mass production and widespread profitability for all skateboard chassis suppliers.

Furthermore, the technology faces the inherent challenge of balancing standardisation with customisation. While a standardised platform offers efficiency, automakers often require specific modifications to meet their unique design and performance requirements. Integrating these chassis with traditional car body designs also presents technical complexities.

CATL’s strong foundation in the battery industry provides a robust advantage in its venture into skateboard chassis, as battery technology is a core component of these integrated platforms. However, the market for independent skateboard chassis suppliers may be constrained because many car companies are developing in-house intelligent chassis technologies, emphasising electronic control and seamless integration with autonomous driving systems. This trend indicates a competitive landscape where automakers are investing heavily to maintain control over critical vehicle architecture.

Source: Sina