Although the energy density per unit mass competes with LFP, the sodium-ion cathodic material is less dense than the material in LFP battery cells. Currently available Na-ion cells need about 40% more total volume then LFP near-equivalents.

In automobiles and trucks, where space for battery packs is at a premium, this makes sodium-ion cells less attractive to use than more expensive Lithium cells. The voltage curve is also more viarable (with state-of-charge changes), and the lifespan is somewhat shorter (perhaps 3000-4000 charge cycles, rather than 6000+ for LFP cells -- both used with conservative charge limits at the top and bottom ragnae of possible SOC states.

They will be GREAT for fixed installations, but they are too large for vehicles.

This is really great news for transitioning to renewable sources using cheap clean high quality stationary batteries.

And if the 2nd gen will be compact enough for cars/trucks/buses... even better!