Cell-level repair instead of full pack replacement
CATL, the world's largest EV battery maker, has introduced a groundbreaking Ning Service cell-to-pack repair programme. Instead of swapping out an entire battery pack, technicians now focus on fixing individual damaged cells. This approach could significantly reduce repair costs for EV owners.
A structural battery pack replacement usually costs around 100,000 yuan. CATL's deep repair method brings that down to roughly 10,000-20,000 yuan, making it up to ten times cheaper than a full replacement.
Global service network
CATL plans to expand its directly operated Ning Service centres to 100 cities worldwide by the end of 2026. This expansion was announced at the company's 'Ning Day 2026' event in Haikou, China. The company will operate these new service centers directly, utilizing automated systems and robots for battery diagnostics and repairs.
Currently, CATL operates eight direct Ning Service centres in China, with two international sites in Norway and Istanbul. The wider Ning Service network includes 1,376 franchised service centres across 84 countries. Additionally, it supports 1,505 battery swap stations in CATL's Choco-Swap ecosystem.
The company launched Ning Service in late 2024 and opened its first directly operated service center in Shanghai in 2025. CATL aims to complete battery repairs within 72 hours or less, with some cases being resolved in around 48 hours. The latest Ning Service centers are designed to support a wider range of new energy vehicles, currently capable of repairing around 76.8% of NEV models sold in China, compared to 47% previously.
CATL has also introduced electric mobile repair trucks under the Ning Service brand, which have a claimed range of up to 800 km. These mobile units can perform 30 diagnostic checks and 50 types of repairs, handling around 90% of non-deep-repair cases. Mobile repairs can reduce repair time from 72 hours to around 48 hours for suitable cases. More complex jobs, such as cell replacement and battery pack refurbishment, will require dedicated service centers.
The expansion is aimed at addressing growing concerns over EV battery life, degradation, and repair costs. CATL expects a wider after-sales network to improve battery support and reduce the need for complete battery pack replacements.
For Nepali EV owners, this is still a global after-sales development. Local availability, pricing in Rs, and timelines for Nepal have not been confirmed yet.
Writes on vehicle pricing, taxation and the Nepali auto market from ongoing tracking of distributor price lists. Editorial policy.
