Upcoming Tesla Innovations: The Future of Electric Vehicles
Written on
Chapter 1: Tesla's Ascendancy in Electric Vehicles
Since its inception, Tesla has been at the forefront of the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, consistently leading the charge in innovation. However, recent years have seen numerous competitors emerging, bringing forth vehicles that rival Tesla in technology, range, and affordability. This has raised concerns about Tesla's sustained dominance in the market. Nevertheless, the company has a strategy to reclaim its edge. In collaboration with Panasonic, Tesla is developing a groundbreaking battery that promises to be half the cost and possess five times the capacity of current models.
How did they achieve this remarkable advancement? When can we expect it to hit the market? And is there any competitor that could stand up to Tesla now?
On October 25, 2021, Panasonic's CEO unveiled a prototype of this extraordinary battery. The cylindrical design measures 8 cm in height and 4.6 cm in width, appearing somewhat bulky at first glance. However, the innovative internal architecture and shape are what make this battery revolutionary.
While the specific chemistry of this new battery remains undisclosed, it is confirmed to be a Lithium-ion pack. Both Elon Musk and Panasonic have hinted that it employs a chemistry that enhances capacity while reducing costs. Yet, the design improvements extend beyond just the chemistry.
Section 1.1: The Tabless Revolution
Inside a typical cylindrical battery, you will find a rolled-up pouch-type cell. These cells comprise layers of materials that store energy as chemical potential energy, complete with metal 'tabs' for connectivity. However, these tabs complicate the manufacturing process and can hinder charge rates and overall output.
In contrast, the new battery utilizes a 'tabless' design, where the entire side of the pouch serves as the terminal. This design simplifies production and reduces costs, as assembly is less intricate. Additionally, the tabless structure speeds up charging and increases the vehicle's peak power by eliminating tab-related bottlenecks.
Subsection 1.1.1: Advancements in Cell Size
Tesla's current battery cell, known as the 2170, is 2.1 cm wide and 70 cm tall, with a total of 4,416 cells in a Model 3's 74 kWh battery pack. However, the new 4680 cell will be a game-changer. Only 960 of these new cells will fit in the same space as the previous 4,416, but with a capacity of 9000 mAh compared to the 2170's 5000 mAh, the total capacity of this new pack will reach 130 kWh.
This represents a remarkable 75% increase in capacity within the same footprint, all thanks to the innovative cell design.
Section 1.2: Efficiency and Cost Reduction
Not only will this new pack be more powerful, but it will also be lighter and more affordable. The design of larger batteries means fewer cells need to be encased in steel, significantly cutting down on material costs and weight. Furthermore, the manufacturing process becomes simpler as only 960 batteries need to be assembled, compared to thousands in the previous models.
Tesla's current packs are divided into 'banks' and further into 'bricks,' each with its own control module to manage charging and temperature. The new design allows for a single control module to oversee all 960 cells, reducing both complexity and expense.
Chapter 2: The Competitive Landscape
Tesla's 2170 cells are densely packed, which limits cooling and consequently restricts charging speeds and performance. The 4680 cells, however, are designed with more space between them, allowing for enhanced cooling through multiple plates, resulting in longer-lasting performance and faster charging capabilities.
When Musk claims that the new battery will be 56% cheaper, with five times the peak power and a 16% increase in range, it's a statement grounded in reality. Industry expert Sandy Munro even suggests that Musk's range estimates may be conservative. The potential for a Model 3 to achieve a range of 632 miles exists, thanks to this new technology. This could also be the reason for the delays in the upcoming Tesla Roadster, as they await mass production of this revolutionary battery.
So, how will this impact the EV market?
Section 2.1: Industry Implications
While companies like Toyota are collaborating with Panasonic, the new battery technology is not exclusive to Tesla. Other manufacturers could potentially adopt this innovation. However, Tesla's flexible manufacturing processes give it a significant advantage.
Unlike many established automakers like VW, Mercedes, and Ford, Tesla's vehicles have matured enough in their design to incorporate new technologies without incurring substantial additional costs. In contrast, companies that are still developing their EV platforms face potential financial losses if they attempt to retrofit outdated models with new battery technology.
As a result, it appears that Tesla is uniquely positioned to leverage this new battery cell in the near future, leading to vehicles that are not only cheaper and faster but also equipped with superior self-driving technology than their competitors.
So, when can we expect to see these advancements?
Section 2.2: Future Outlook
Tesla has indicated that the 4680 battery will debut in 2022, coinciding with the production of the Cybertruck and the anticipated early 2023 release of the Roadster. However, Tesla's rapid update cycle means it's plausible for existing models like the Model S, 3, X, or Y to incorporate the new cell sooner than expected.
Ultimately, it seems that Tesla is poised to solidify its market position against a new wave of competitors. This highlights the innovative vision of Elon Musk and the company's commitment to pushing the electric vehicle industry forward at an unprecedented pace.