LG Energy Solution said Friday that it has secured an agreement to be the exclusive supplier of cylindrical battery cells for Aptera Motors, the California-based startup specializing in solar-powered electric vehicles.
The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding for the supply deal on the sidelines of this week's CES 2025 in Las Vegas. CTNS, a Korean battery pack manufacturer, also plans to join the production.
From this year to 2031, LG Energy Solution is set to supply 4.4 gigawatt-hour 2170 cylindrical cells, measuring 21 millimeters in diameter and 70 mm in height. While financial details were not disclosed, the size of the deal is projected at approximately 730 billion won ($499.2 million).
The Aptera Motors’ solar EV represents a new form of next-generation mobility by combining solar panels and battery packs as its energy sources, according to LG Energy Solution. It primarily runs on batteries, with solar power stored as extra energy in the pack, boasting a longer range than conventional battery-powered vehicles.
Aptera Motors has highlighted that the EV offers a driving range of 643 kilometers on a single charge, along with an additional 65 kilometers of range capacity -- suitable for city driving -- after just one day of charging its solar cells. Following a series of successful test drives last year, it received over 50,000 units of pre-orders, with plans to begin launches in the US this year.
Through this agreement, LG Energy Solution emphasized its commitment to accelerating the diversification of its product portfolio. This is in line with its corporate vision to explore new business opportunities with high growth potential, such as robotics, ships and urban air mobility.
The company is also expanding its range of battery form factors, including the new 46 series cells, which allow for higher capacity and power output than the existing 2170 cells. Scheduled to start mass production at its Arizona plant in the US next year, the 46 series cells will be supplied to major auto giants, namely Tesla and Mercedes-Benz.
In addition, the battery manufacturer plans to add prismatic cells to its lineup by 2027, in response to growing demand from carmakers. Among its Korean rivals, Samsung SDI produces the PRiMX prismatic batteries, with SK On recently completing the setup of its production line for these cells last year.
“As a leader in the global battery industry, LG Energy Solution will deliver unique customer value in the next-generation mobility sector,” stated Choi.
By Byun Hye-jin (hyejin2@heraldcorp.com)
