Chinese electric vehicle (EV) battery maker Contemporary Amperex Technology Company has agreed to work with local EV startup Hozon Auto to develop a body-on-frame architecture for its electric vehicles, according to local reports.
Hozon plans to launch its first model based on the new CATL Integrated Intelligent Chassis, complete with batteries and drive systems, by the end of 2024.
Hozon would be the first automaker to introduce CATL’s “skateboard” chassis, which would help it cut costs while offering greater range and significantly more legroom for driver and passengers. The new agreement is expected to significantly deepen the collaboration between the two companies, which began in 2021.
Hozon said its EV sales doubled to 152,000 units last year, while cumulative sales totaled 248,000 units. The company plans to launch the Neta E in the first half of 2023, which will be available as a sports coupe with a maximum power output of 170 kW in each of its front and rear drive motors and a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in three seconds is described.
