In August 2025, Samsung SDI officially announced the launch of its dedicated production line for 46π cylindrical batteries at its Hungary plant, aiming for mass production by 2028. This strategic move marks a significant step in Samsung SDI’s global expansion in the electric vehicle (EV) battery market and reflects the deepening partnership with German premium automaker BMW.
1. First Mass Production of 46π EV Batteries in Europe
According to industry sources on August 3, Samsung SDI plans to build dedicated production lines—Lines 13 and 14—at its second plant in Göd, Hungary. The company will repurpose idle space within the facility to maximize investment efficiency and construct an optimized 46π production line.
Until now, the Hungarian plant has been focused solely on prismatic battery production. Introducing the new 46π cylindrical format requires additional specialized equipment. Samsung SDI is expected to place equipment orders for the production line within this month.
While Samsung SDI has already started small-scale production of 46π batteries at its Cheonan plant in Korea for micro mobility uses like e-bikes and scooters, the Hungarian facility will mark its first production of 46π batteries for EV applications—with BMW confirmed as the initial customer.
2. What Is the 46π Battery and Why It Matters
The 46π cylindrical battery refers to cells with a diameter of 46mm. These batteries can be manufactured in various heights such as 80mm, 95mm, 100mm, and 120mm. The first model to be mass-produced is expected to be the 4695 (46mm diameter, 95mm height).
Compared to the current industry-standard 2170 cell (21mm diameter, 70mm height), the 46π offers more than five times the energy capacity and power output. With superior thermal performance and structural strength, the 46π is ideal for high-performance EVs and is rapidly becoming the next-generation cylindrical battery standard.
3. Aiming for Mass Production by 2028
In its recent Q2 earnings call, Samsung SDI confirmed it has secured orders for premium EV cylindrical batteries from a leading European automaker and is preparing for 2028 mass production through new investments in Hungary. While the company did not disclose the client’s name, industry insiders identify BMW as the partner.
Samsung SDI and BMW have long maintained a close partnership in battery development. The decision to proceed with mass production of 46π batteries in Hungary indicates that negotiations have borne fruit. Samsung SDI is currently discussing equipment supply and timelines with its manufacturing partners to ensure a smooth rollout.
Initial deliveries may begin as small batches to validate performance and logistics, followed by scaled-up production based on market demand and product maturity.
4. Production Speed to Increase by 7–8 Times
Compared to Samsung SDI’s existing M-Line (mother line) in Cheonan, the new production line in Hungary will dramatically enhance manufacturing speed. Industry sources estimate that while the current M-Line produces about 20 parts per minute (PPM), the upcoming Hungarian line is projected to achieve 140–160 PPM—a 7 to 8 times increase in productivity.
Furthermore, the production line will be flexibly configured to manufacture a range of 46π battery models, including 4680, 4695, and 46120, to meet diversified market needs.
5. Strategic Significance in the European EV Supply Chain
With Europe accelerating its transition to localized and low-carbon EV battery supply chains, Samsung SDI’s investment in Hungary reflects a timely and strategic move. The company is not only responding to BMW’s local sourcing requirements but also positioning itself to become a key player in the European premium EV market.
As European regulatory frameworks increasingly emphasize carbon footprint reduction in battery manufacturing, having a local production base is becoming a vital competitive advantage for suppliers.
6. Conclusion
Samsung SDI’s decision to begin mass production of 46π cylindrical batteries in Hungary is a landmark development for both the company and the broader EV industry. With BMW as the first major EV client, the project signals Samsung SDI’s readiness to scale high-performance battery production to meet future automotive demands.
From enhanced production efficiency to flexible manufacturing capabilities, the new Hungarian lines represent a transformative step in Samsung SDI’s global battery strategy. As mass production ramps up, the company is poised to strengthen its position among battery giants like LG Energy Solution, Panasonic, and CATL—driving innovation and competitiveness in the global electric mobility market.
