A recent report from The Information suggests that Tesla is developing four new versions of its dry cathode 4680 battery cells, slated for introduction by 2026. These new cells are expected to power several vehicles in Tesla’s lineup.
Tesla first unveiled the 4680 battery during its Battery Day event in 2020. While the ramp-up of these next-generation cells has faced some delays, recent developments indicate significant progress. In July, reports from China suggested that Tesla was preparing to mass-produce the “complete” version of its 4680 cell, featuring both positive and negative electrodes produced using Tesla’s dry cathode process.
Shortly after, a Tesla Senior Manufacturing Engineer for 4680 cell development announced on social media that the first Cybertruck equipped with full dry cathode 4680 cells had been built. Additionally, Tesla shared a milestone on X in mid-September:
According to The Information, Tesla is moving forward with its dry cathode 4680 battery plans despite earlier challenges. The four new battery variants are reportedly codenamed “NC05,” “NC20,” “NC30,” and “NC50,” each designed for specific purposes:
- “NC05”: Described as a “workhorse” battery, intended for the upcoming Robotaxi (expected to be unveiled on October 10, 2024), Cybertruck, Semi, and an unannounced vehicle.
- “NC20”: A higher energy density battery, planned for use in an SUV, the Cybertruck, and future vehicles.
- “NC30” and “NC50”: These variants will reportedly incorporate silicon carbon into the anodes, allowing for greater lithium storage capacity. The “NC30” is intended for vehicles like the Cybertruck and a new all-electric sedan, while the “NC50” is aimed at performance-focused vehicles such as the next-generation Tesla Roadster.
This diversification of battery types suggests that Tesla is tailoring its power solutions to meet the specific needs of different vehicle classes, from everyday drivers to high-performance models. As Tesla continues to innovate in battery technology, these new dry cathode variants could play a crucial role in the company’s future product lineup and market competitiveness.
