Tesla’s Battery Revolution: Four New Designs By 2026

What’s going on here?

Tesla is gearing up to revolutionize its electric vehicle lineup by developing four new battery designs by 2026, including for the highly anticipated Cybertruck and robotaxi.

What does this mean?

Tesla’s push to create its own battery technology marks a strategic move to slash costs and boost profits, reducing reliance on suppliers like Panasonic and LG Energy. The cutting-edge 4680 battery cells are central to this plan, but Tesla faces challenges: during test runs, cathode losses have hit 70% to 80%, compared to traditional manufacturers’ sub-2% losses. The production pace of the dry-coated 4680 cells remains slow, an issue lingering since last year. Yet, Tesla plans to integrate dry cathodes into Cybertruck batteries by mid-2025, targeting a production rate of 2,000 to 3,000 units weekly. The ambitious 2026 timeline to launch four 4680 battery versions, including the NC05 for the robotaxi, signals Tesla’s strategic shift toward AI-driven autonomous vehicles as traditional EV demand tapers off.

Why should I care?

Tesla’s cutting-edge battery technology could redefine standards in the EV industry, ramping up competition with automakers and battery producers. The upcoming robotaxi marks a transformative step in transport, potentially shifting market dynamics and affecting investor outlook.

The bigger picture: Driving towards autonomy.

Tesla’s robotaxi launch underscores a broader industry pivot toward AI and sustainable travel. This emphasis on innovation and efficiency is set to shape automotive trends and policies, accelerating the global shift to smarter mobility.

—

Originally Posted October 3, 2024 – Tesla’s Battery Revolution: Four New Designs By 2026