Keysight Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: KEYS) has expanded its strategic collaboration with the China Automotive Technology and Research Center (CATARC) New Energy Vehicle Inspection Center, establishing a Joint Innovation Laboratory for Charging Test Technology to accelerate advancements in electric vehicle validation and standards.
The initiative comes as the global new energy vehicle (NEV) market continues to grow rapidly. Automakers and suppliers are facing rising complexity in charging systems, driven by higher power requirements, evolving standards, and stricter safety regulations. Ensuring interoperability across regional markets has also become a key challenge, increasing the need for reliable, standards-based testing and certification.
Under the partnership, Keysight and CATARC will combine their respective strengths. Keysight brings expertise in electrification and validation solutions, while CATARC contributes its leadership in domestic standards, testing, and certification. The joint laboratory will focus on addressing critical issues such as charging compatibility, safety validation, and compliance with both domestic and international regulations.
The collaboration will support current and emerging charging standards, including China’s upcoming National Standard 2024 and global Combined Charging System (CCS) requirements. These standards are central to enabling cross-border deployment of electric vehicles and ensuring consistent charging performance across different infrastructure environments.
As part of the expanded engagement, CATARC has adopted Keysight’s vehicle-to-charger conformance testing solutions. These tools will be used to support certification and verification processes across European, North American, and next-generation Chinese charging standards. The move is expected to strengthen testing capabilities and reduce development risks for manufacturers targeting global markets.
Fan Bin, Deputy Chief Engineer at CATARC New Energy Vehicle Inspection Center, said the collaboration builds on a long-standing partnership between the two organizations. He noted that charging test technologies have become an increasingly important component of their joint efforts. The new laboratory, he said, is expected to deepen cooperation and support the broader development of China’s automotive industry.
Thomas Goetzl, Vice President and General Manager of Automotive and Energy Solutions at Keysight, said the company remains focused on advancing electrification through innovation and collaboration. He added that working closely with CATARC will help shape future charging test technologies and contribute to the development of global standards.
