Samsung SDI Begins Production and Initial Supply of 46-Series Batteries, Targeting Micro-Mobility and Electric Vehicle Applications
SEOUL, Korea – March 31, 2025 – Samsung SDI today announced the commencement of production and initial supply of its highly anticipated 46-series cylindrical batteries, marking a significant advancement in battery technology and solidifying the company’s position as a leader in the rapidly evolving energy storage market. Becoming the first Korean battery manufacturer to enter the 46-series arena, Samsung SDI is poised to capitalize on the burgeoning demand for high-performance, energy-dense battery solutions.
The 46-series batteries, characterized by a diameter of 46 millimeters, represent the next generation of cylindrical battery technology, offering substantial improvements over existing formats. Samsung SDI has already begun shipping 4695 battery modules from its Vietnam subsidiary, with initial applications focused on micro-mobility devices. The company anticipates expanding its customer base and broadening applications to include electric vehicles in the near future.
Accelerated Production, Driven by Innovation
Samsung SDI’s ability to begin production of the 46-series more than a year ahead of initial projections underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and its competitive manufacturing capabilities. This accelerated timeline is a direct result of Samsung SDI’s differentiated manufacturing processes, technological leadership, and rigorous quality management systems.
Advanced Chemistry for Enhanced Performance
The 46-series batteries incorporate cutting-edge chemistry to deliver exceptional performance characteristics. They feature a high-nickel Nickel, Cobalt, and Aluminum (NCA) cathode, maximizing energy density, and a proprietary Silicon Carbon Nanocomposite (SCN) anode, enhancing lifespan and improving overall battery performance. This advanced combination results in a significant boost to energy density while simultaneously mitigating the risk of swelling, a critical factor in ensuring battery safety.
Revolutionary Tabless Design for Superior Efficiency
A key differentiator for Samsung SDI’s 46-series batteries is the adoption of a revolutionary tabless design. Traditional cylindrical batteries rely on tabs to connect the electrodes to the current collectors. The tabless design eliminates this intermediary step, allowing for a direct connection between the electrodes and the current collectors. This innovation dramatically improves the current flow path, reduces internal resistance by an impressive 90 percent, and ultimately enhances overall battery output and efficiency.
Significant Size and Capacity Advantage
The 46-series batteries offer a substantial advantage in terms of size and capacity compared to their predecessors, the 21700 batteries (21mm diameter, 70mm height). The 46-series boasts an energy capacity approximately six times greater than the 21700 format. This increased capacity allows customers to achieve the same energy storage capacity using fewer cells, leading to lighter, more compact battery packs and system designs.
Comprehensive Product Lineup and Future Expansion
Samsung SDI showcased its comprehensive 46-series lineup at InterBattery 2025, Korea’s largest battery trade show. The lineup includes four distinct sizes: 4680, 4695, 46100, and 46120, catering to a wide range of application requirements. The company is now commencing mass production within the first quarter of this year and actively pursuing partnerships with major electric vehicle manufacturers to secure future supply agreements.
Market Opportunity and Future Outlook
The global market for 46-series cylindrical batteries is experiencing rapid growth, with projections indicating a surge from 155 GWh this year to 650 GWh by 2030, representing a robust annual growth rate of 33 percent. This burgeoning market presents a significant opportunity for Samsung SDI to solidify its leadership position and drive future growth.
“With the initial supply of 46-series batteries, we have successfully diversified our product portfolio,” stated a Samsung SDI official. “The company will continue its unwavering efforts to take the lead in the 46-series market, leveraging our differentiated manufacturing technology and unwavering commitment to quality.”
About Samsung SDI
Samsung SDI is a leading global manufacturer of advanced battery solutions for a wide range of applications, including electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and consumer electronics. The company is committed to innovation and sustainability, driving the future of energy storage.
