Tesla’s Battery Evolution
Tesla’s journey with batteries is nothing short of fascinating. The company started with the 18650 battery cells for its Roadster and Model S/X vehicles. These cells, produced primarily by Panasonic, used a Nickel-Cobalt-Aluminum (NCA) chemistry.
Then came the 2170 cells, used in the Model 3/Y and energy storage products. Panasonic initially produced these cells at Tesla’s Gigafactory 1 in Nevada.
And now, Tesla has introduced its own 4680 cells, five times larger than the 2170 cells. These cells pose certain manufacturing challenges, and Tesla has undertaken its own research and development in California and Texas to overcome these.
Here’s a comparison table among the different types of batteries used by Tesla:
| Battery Type | Used In | Advantages | Disadvantages | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18650-type | Model S, Model X | High energy density, long cycle life, good stability within a certain temperature range, high charging and discharging efficiency | Performance is affected in extreme environments (low or high temperatures), higher manufacturing cost compared to other battery technologies | Nickel Cobalt Aluminum (NCA) chemistry, produced by Panasonic |
| 2170-type | Model 3, Model Y | 20% increased battery density compared to 18650 batteries, 9% price reduction compared to 18650 types, reduced weight hence can go more miles, charges faster | Size has been fixed, not well positioned when it is installed in some notebooks or some product | Larger and more energy-dense than 18650 cells, used in all dual-motor Model 3 and Y vehicles |
| 4680-type | Future Models | Energy density and capacity are substantially higher and can offer more power for a longer time, significantly lower electrical resistance, which causes less heat to build up and overheat | Difficulty of electrode welding technology, high yield control threshold | 5-times larger than 2170 cells, allows for further optimizing the system |
| Prismatic-type (LFP) | Entry-level Models | Much longer life cycle (10,000+ cycles in some cases – millions of miles), non-toxic, cobalt free and nickel free, much cheaper in theory | Performance is affected in extreme environments (low or high temperatures), higher manufacturing costs compared to other battery technologies | More stable, safer, and environmentally friendly as they don’t require any nickel or cobalt |
Why Tesla is Shifting to LFP Batteries
Recently, Tesla has started using LFP batteries in some of its models. The shift to LFP batteries is likely a strategic move by Tesla to increase profit margins on its cars, without necessarily having to raise prices. LFP batteries are significantly cheaper, more stable, and safer. They also don’t require any nickel or cobalt, making them more environmentally friendly.
Impact of LFP Batteries on Tesla’s Vehicles
The shift to LFP batteries has several implications for Tesla’s vehicles. On the one hand, LFP batteries offer a longer cycle life, which means they can last for more charge/discharge cycles before their capacity starts to degrade. On the other hand, LFP batteries are less energy-dense than other types of batteries, which means they offer a lower range for the same weight.
Tesla’s Batteries’ Suppliers:
- Panasonic: Panasonic has been a long-standing partner of Tesla, supplying batteries for all models for a long time. They primarily produce the 18650 and 2170 battery cells that use a Nickel-Cobalt-Aluminum (NCA) chemistry.
- LG Chem’s LG Energy Solution: This South Korean company is one of the largest lithium-ion cell suppliers for passenger xEVs globally. They joined Tesla in 2020 to supply cells for the Made-in-China (MIC) Model 3 / Model Y.
- Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL): CATL is a Chinese company that is the primary supplier of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries for Tesla.
- Others: Tesla also has direct supplier relationships in the battery supply chain with other companies for materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel.
The Future of EV Battery Technology
Predicting the future is always tricky, but the future of EV batteries is brimming with exciting possibilities. Here are some key trends and technologies shaping the landscape:
1. Beyond Lithium-ion:
While lithium-ion batteries will likely remain dominant for the foreseeable future, other chemistries are gaining traction. Solid-state batteries promise higher energy density, faster charging, and improved safety, potentially revolutionizing range and performance. Sodium-ion batteries offer a more sustainable and potentially cheaper alternative, though energy density currently lags behind lithium-ion.
2. AI-powered Optimization:
Battery development and manufacturing are getting a boost from artificial intelligence. AI algorithms can predict battery performance, optimize materials, and automate processes, leading to more efficient and cost-effective batteries.
3. Recycling and Circular Economy:
Sustainability is a major focus. Lithium and other critical materials are being recovered from used batteries, reducing environmental impact and resource dependence. Battery production is also shifting towards cleaner and more efficient processes.
4. Grid Integration:
EVs with smart battery systems can act as flexible energy storage units, contributing to grid stability and integrating renewable energy sources like solar and wind. This bi-directional charging opens up exciting possibilities for managing energy demand and optimizing renewable energy utilization.