Samsung SDI has become the first Korean company to mass-produce advanced 46-series cylindrical batteries, marked by a supply agreement with a US-based micro-mobility manufacturer.
According to the company on Monday, the battery cells — measuring 46 millimeters in diameter and 95 millimeters in height — are produced at the "mother line," or primary production line, of the company’s Cheonan plant in South Chungcheong Province and assembled into modules at its Vietnam subsidiary.
While the specifics of the supply deal remain undisclosed, Samsung SDI emphasized that it had begun the large-scale production of the 46-series batteries over a year ahead of its original schedule.
These cells boast an energy capacity six times greater than the existing 21700 cylindrical batteries — 21 mm in diameter and 70 mm in height. This means that fewer batteries are required to meet the capacity requirements of electrified vehicles.
The batteries use high-nickel, high-capacity nickel, cobalt and aluminum cathodes and silicon carbon nanocomposite anodes. This composition reduces the swelling phenomena in the batteries, increases energy density, extends lifespan and ensures safety.
Following its first supply agreement, Samsung SDI is actively negotiating with major EV manufacturers and anticipates achieving visible outcomes.
Industry insiders speculate that the company will likely supply 46-series batteries to BMW vehicles powered by the next-generation EV platform, Neue Klasse, this year. The German automaker, which previously used only prismatic batteries, has announced plans to adopt cylindrical batteries for its upcoming EV lineup. Sedans will be equipped with 46mm by 95mm cylindrical batteries, while SUVs will use 46mm by 120mm cells. Samsung SDI already has yearslong business ties with BMW.
“With the mass production and supply deal of the 46-series batteries, we have diversified our product portfolio. We will secure market leadership through our differentiated manufacturing competitiveness and commitment to quality,” said a Samsung SDI official.
According to market tracker SNE Research, the 46 series cylindrical battery market is projected to expand from 155 gigawatt-hours this year to 650 gigawatt-hours by 2030, reflecting an average annual growth rate of 33 percent.
Samsung SDI has also advanced technologies for its flagship prismatic batteries, which can be customized in size and thickness to meet the specific needs of its clients. Larger and thicker cells offer higher energy density and can reduce production costs. This flexibility allows SUVs to install large prismatic cells to minimize the number of batteries required or taller cells in high-clearance pickup trucks, providing a high level of adaptability in terms of height.
Leveraging its thermal propagation prevention technology, the company's prismatic products incorporate insulation sheets within the battery modules and packs, which enable heat to escape through alternate vents and exit the vehicle. This design effectively prevents battery explosions and EV fires.
The premium prismatic battery, known as P7, is expected to complete development by the end of this year. The P7 offers enhanced energy density by increasing the content of nickel and other materials compared to its predecessor, the P6.
Additionally, Samsung SDI is gearing up to start mass production of the all-solid-state battery by 2027. Compared to other Korean competitors such as LG Energy Solution and SK On, the company is considered to be at the forefront of this game-changing technology. All-solid-state cells use solid electrolytes instead of the relatively unstable liquid electrolytes, significantly enhancing fire safety and energy density.
By Byun Hye-jin (hyejin2@heraldcorp.com)
