Chinese battery manufacturer Svolt Energy has introduced the Fortress 2.0, an 80 kWh battery pack designed for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), setting a new capacity record for the segment. Unveiled at the company’s Battery Day in Changzhou, this high-performance system features 6C fast charging capabilities, allowing for a 10 to 80 percent charge in just ten minutes. Aimed at D-segment family vehicles, the battery seeks to bridge the gap between traditional hybrids and full electric cars by offering significant electric-only range and advanced thermal management for long-distance travel.
The Fortress 2.0 marks a significant leap in hybrid technology, focusing on maximizing volume utilization and system energy density. By refining the internal architecture, Svolt has achieved a 6 percent improvement in density compared to its previous generation. This development responds to a growing market demand for hybrid vehicles that can handle daily commutes entirely on electric power without the range anxiety often associated with pure battery electric vehicles.
A key highlight of the new system is the integration of ultra-fast charging graphite technology. Beyond the hardware, Svolt introduced its 3.5-generation ion oscillation pulse charging method. This software-driven approach uses intelligent current control and brief relaxation phases to allow lithium ions to redistribute more evenly across the anode. The company claims this methodology reduces overall charging times by 25 percent without requiring expensive changes to the battery chemistry or cell structure.
The push for higher capacity in hybrids is already visible in the industry. For instance, the Leapmotor D19 SUV recently debuted with an 80.3 kWh battery, providing an electric-only range of approximately 499 kilometers. While such high capacities were previously reserved for extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs), where the engine acts solely as a generator, Svolt is now bringing this scale to PHEVs, where the engine can still directly drive the wheels.
In addition to the Fortress 2.0, Svolt provided updates on its semi-solid state battery portfolio. Its first-generation high-nickel semi-solid battery, boasting an energy density of 270 Wh/kg, is already being utilized by a European passenger car brand. Meanwhile, a second-generation version reaching 342 Wh/kg has been developed for the aviation sector, specifically for electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. A mid-nickel variant designed for the broader automotive market is expected to enter mass production by late 2026.
Founded as a division of Great Wall Motor before becoming an independent entity in 2018, Svolt is rapidly expanding its market presence. The company reported its first quarterly profit in late 2025 and is targeting full-year profitability by 2026. With plans to ship 61 GWh of batteries in 2026—a 50 percent year-on-year increase—the manufacturer is positioning itself as a dominant force in the global transition toward high-capacity hybrid and specialized electric storage solutions.