As China leads the global transition to new energy vehicles (NEVs), its patent system has
become the cornerstone for protecting core technologies in power batteries, materials, and
battery management systems. Governed by the Patent Law of the People’s Republic of
China (2021 Revision) and administered by the China National Intellectual Property
Administration (CNIPA), the regime supports layered protection, rapid examination, and
strong enforcement for global enterprises competing in the world’s largest NEV market.
The following case shows how systematic patent filing and targeted enforcement can defend
core battery technologies and secure long-term market dominance.
Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL), a world-leading power battery provider,
developed a next-generation solid-state battery cell structure and an integrated thermal
management control method for high-energy-density NEVs. To fully protect its innovation, CATL
built a layered patent portfolio:
● Invention patents for core material formulas, electrochemical methods, and battery control
algorithms;
● Utility model patents for structural designs, assembly processes, and cooling modules;
● Design patents for battery pack appearance and modular layout.
In early 2026, multiple domestic and overseas competitors launched similar solid-state battery
products using nearly identical structural designs and thermal control solutions. CATL acted
decisively with a multi-dimensional enforcement strategy: it submitted administrative complaints
to local intellectual property offices, requesting seizure and removal of infringing products from
exhibitions, e-commerce platforms, and automaker supply chains. It also filed civil litigation in
the Guangzhou Intellectual Property Court, seeking permanent injunctions and compensatory
damages.
Within five months, the court upheld CATL’s patent rights and ordered the infringers to cease
production, sales, and online promotion. Infringing products were recalled and destroyed. The
administrative enforcement achieved rapid results, halting unfair competition in the NEV supply
chain. This series of actions stabilized CATL’s market position and significantly enhanced the
commercial value of its patent portfolio.
This case reveals key best practices for NEV and battery innovators in China:
● Layered patent layout combines invention patents for long-term core protection and utility
models for fast enforcement.
● Preemptive filing before product launch prevents invalidity risks and supports high success
rates in enforcement.
● Dual administrative and judicial enforcement delivers both rapid cessation of infringement
and substantial financial remedies.
● Full technical disclosure and precise claim drafting are critical to winning court and
administrative rulings.
For international power battery and NEV companies entering China, the following strategies
are essential:
File patents before public disclosure to maintain novelty and avoid invalidation.
Use invention + utility model + design patent combinations for all-round protection.
Monitor CNIPA’s patent database regularly to detect potential infringement early.
Use CNIPA’s priority examination for green tech and NEV technologies to accelerate grants.
Engage local patent attorneys familiar with battery technology and IP courts to improve
enforcement efficiency.
China’s patent system in 2026 provides strong, systematic protection for core technologies in the
new energy vehicle and power battery industries. CATL’s case proves that a proactive,
layered patent strategy — including comprehensive filing, real-time monitoring, and coordinated
enforcement — can effectively defend technological advantages. By following this model, global
enterprises can protect innovations, reduce risks, and build sustainable competitiveness in China’s
strategically important NEV market.
Hyperlink List：
●IPcrossark:
https://www.ipcrossark.com/en/patent_detail/1.html
● NIPA – Official Patent Registration & Enforcement:
● CATL – Official Website：
