Samsung SDI Begins Production of 46-Series Cylindrical Batteries and Initial Supply for U.S. Customer

Rhea-AI Summary

Samsung SDI has commenced production of next-generation 46-series cylindrical batteries, becoming the first Korean battery maker to supply these products to overseas customers. The company recently celebrated its first shipment of 4695 battery modules from its Vietnam subsidiary, with initial supply going to a US customer for micro mobility applications.

The 46-series batteries feature high-nickel NCA cathode and proprietary SCN anode technology, offering enhanced energy density and lifespan. The innovative tabless design reduces internal resistance by 90% and provides higher output. These batteries are approximately six times larger in capacity than 21700 predecessors.

The company's 46-series lineup includes four sizes (4680, 4695, 46100, and 46120). The global market for 46-series cylindrical batteries is projected to grow from 155GWh in 2025 to 650GWh by 2030, with a 33% annual growth rate.

Positive

• First Korean battery maker to supply 46-series batteries to overseas customers
• Advanced technology reducing internal resistance by 90%
• Six times larger energy capacity compared to predecessor batteries
• Early production launch more than one year ahead of schedule
• Strong market growth potential with 33% annual growth rate forecast

Negative

• Initial supply to micro mobility applications, not yet reaching EV market
• Still in negotiation phase with major EV manufacturers

Larger-size cylindrical batteries produced for use in micro mobility and to be expanded for electric vehicles

Product portfolio diversified with 46-series addition, enabling the company to take market leadership

SEOUL, South Korea, March 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Samsung SDI today announced the company has embarked on production of 46-series cylindrical batteries with a diameter of 46 millimeters, known as the next generation of cylindrical batteries.

Samsung SDI has become the first Korean battery maker to start supplying 46-series batteries for overseas customers and plans to expand its customer base with this announcement.

The company said it recently commemorated the first shipment of 4695 battery modules at its Vietnam subsidiary.

4695 batteries, mearsuring 46 millimeters in diameter and 95 millimeters in height, are produced at Samsung SDI's plant in Cheonan, South Chungcheong Province of South Korea, and assembled into modules at the Vietnam subsidiary. The modules will be initially supplied for an American customer for use in micro mobility applications.

Samsung SDI highlights the company has begun production of the next-generation products more than a year earlier than planned, owing to its differentiated manufacturing competitiveness, technological edge and quality management.

Samsung SDI's 46-series batteries feature high-nickel NCA (Nickel, Cobalt and Aluminum) cathode and proprietary SCN (Silicon Carbon Nanocomposite) anode.

With the cutting-edge chemistry, the company has heightened both energy density and lifespan of the cylindrical products, while preventing the batteries from swelling as part of strengthening safety.

Samsung SDI has also adopted a tabless design for the 46-series, where the electrodes are connected directly to the current collectors without the need for traditional tabs. This has improved the current flow path and reduced internal resistance by 90 percent, providing higher outage.

In addition, 46-series batteries are about six times larger in energy capacity than predecessor 21700 batteries with a diameter of 21 millimeters and a height of 79 millimeters, enabling customers to use fewer cells for the same capacity.

Samsung SDI unveiled its 46-series lineup, consisting of four sizes (4680, 4695, 46100 and 46120) at InterBattery 2025, the largest trade show held in Korea, earlier this month. It has announced the company will commence mass production within the first quarter of this year.

The company is currently in talks with major electric vehicle manufacturers for supplies of 46-series batteries. With the start of the 4695 production, the company expects to supply for EV makers in the near future.

According to market researcher SNE Research, the global market for 46-series cylindrical batteries is forecast to grow from 155GWh this year to 650GWh in 2030 by an annual growth rate of 33 percent.

"With the initial supply of 46-series batteries, the company has diversified its product portfolio," an official at Samsung SDI said. "The company will continue efforts to take the lead in the 46-series market with differentiated manufacturing technology and quality."

About Samsung SDI

Samsung SDI, headquartered in the Republic of Korea, is a world-leading battery and electronic material manufacturer redefining the worlds of electric vehicles, energy storage systems and IT devices. The company drives transformation and innovation to emerge as a leader across the fields of e-mobility, energy solutions, as well as semiconductors and displays. The company commits to sourcing 100% renewable electricity across its entire global operations by 2050. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung SDI News at https://www.samsungsdi.com/sdi-news/list.html.

FAQ

What are the key features of Samsung SDI's new 46-series cylindrical batteries?

The batteries feature high-nickel NCA cathode, SCN anode, tabless design reducing internal resistance by 90%, and six times larger energy capacity than 21700 batteries.

What is the market growth projection for 46-series cylindrical batteries by 2030?

The global market is expected to grow from 155GWh in 2025 to 650GWh in 2030, with a 33% annual growth rate.

Which sizes are available in Samsung SDI's 46-series battery lineup?

The lineup consists of four sizes: 4680, 4695, 46100, and 46120.

Where are Samsung SDI's 46-series batteries manufactured and assembled?

The batteries are produced at the Cheonan plant in South Korea and assembled into modules at the Vietnam subsidiary.

What is the initial application for Samsung SDI's 4695 batteries?

The initial supply is for an American customer for use in micro mobility applications, with plans to expand to electric vehicles.