Samsung SDI has started production of 46-series cylindrical batteries
South Korean battery manufacturer Samsung SDI has launched mass production of cylindrical cells in the 4695 format. The first batches are already on their way to a customer in the USA, where they will first be used in the field of micromobility. They will then also be installed in electric vehicles.
Here's What We Know
The new 4695 cells have a diameter of 46 mm and a height of 95 mm. They are manufactured at a plant in Cheonan, South Korea, with final assembly in modules taking place in Vietnam.
The main features of the 46 series are:
- High NCA (nickel, cobalt, aluminium) cathode
- SCN (silicon-carbon nanocomposite) anode
- No traditional contact plates - electrodes are directly connected to the current collectors, which reduces internal resistance by 90%
In addition, the 46 Series batteries are approximately six times larger in energy capacity than the previous 21700 batteries, with a diameter of 21 millimetres and a height of 70 millimetres. This allows customers to use fewer cells for the same capacity.
Employees of Samsung SDI Vietnam pose for a commemorative photo at the first shipment ceremony of 46-series modules on 28 March. Photo: Samsung SDI
Samsung SDI unveiled its 46-series line-up of four models (4680, 4695, 46100 and 46120) at InterBattery 2025 held in early March. The company announced that it will begin mass production of the energy storage devices in the first quarter of this year.
Several automakers are now planning to use 46 millimetre diameter cylindrical cells in their electric vehicles, including BMW, General Motors and Tesla.
A pilot line to produce cylindrical cells in Cheonan was announced back in 2022. At that time, it was for 4680 batteries for Tesla and other models for other customers. Samsung SDI will also produce 46-series cylindrical batteries for BMW Neue Klasse, manufactured in Hungary.
Sources: Samsung SDI, Electrive
