Why does Tesla use cylindrical batteries while other car manufacturer use prismatic batteries?
Tesla’s decision to use cylindrical batteries as the power source for its electric vehicles was based on many considerations, and this choice has become one of the technical features of Tesla’s electric vehicles.
Tesla’s Reasons for Choosing Cylindrical Batteries
The reason for Tesla’s selection of cylindrical batteries is not single but the result of the common effect of multiple factors.
Technology maturity: Cylindrical batteries have a long application history in the field of electric vehicles, and their technology is relatively mature. Tesla used cylindrical batteries in its early products (such as the Roadster and Model S) and continued to use this technology route in subsequent models. With the continuous iteration and upgrading of technology, Tesla’s cylindrical batteries have made significant progress in energy density, safety, cycle life and other aspects.
However, why have other EV manufacturers, especially domestic EV brands, yet to adopt similar cylindrical battery solutions?
Since prismatic batteries have been widely researched and produced in the early days, and the relevant battery management systems are also designed for prismatic batteries, for most car companies, using prismatic batteries is more convenient and less risky.
Reasons for Choosing Prismatic Batteries
In contrast, the reasons for choosing prismatic batteries are equally complex and varied.
- Packaging Reliability
The packaging technology of prismatic batteries is relatively mature and has high reliability. Its sturdy shell can protect the battery cells and electrolytes inside the battery from interference and damage from the external environment.
- System Energy Efficiency
Prismatic batteries excel in system energy efficiency and can provide more power for the same volume or weight. It is crucial to improve the range and performance of electric vehicles.
- Single-cell Capacity and Expandability
The single-cell capacity of prismatic batteries is relatively large, and expansion is relatively convenient. It helps meet the demand for high energy density in electric vehicles while reducing the complexity and cost of battery systems.
- Production Flexibility
Prismatic batteries can be customized according to the size of the product, which allows automakers to adjust the size and shape of the battery as needed to meet the needs of different models and markets.
Advantages of Prismatic Lithium Batteries
Prismatic batteries are generally made of aluminum or steel shells. Domestic battery manufacturers mainly use prismatic aluminum shell batteries with higher battery density. A large part of the reason is that the structure of prismatic batteries is relatively simple. Unlike cylindrical batteries, which use stainless steel as battery shells and accessories such as battery safety vents, prismatic power batteries are lighter and have higher energy density than round batteries. They have high structural strength, good mechanical load tolerance, low battery internal resistance, long life, small energy density drop after assembly, and high space utilization.
Production Efficiency and Cost-effectiveness
- Highly Automated Production
The production process of prismatic batteries can be highly automated and scaled, thereby reducing production costs. It is of great significance in improving the market competitiveness of electric vehicles.
Application Flexibility and Market Adaptability
- Customized Production
Prismatic batteries can be customized according to the size and shape of the product to meet the needs of automobile manufacturers for different models and markets. It makes prismatic batteries have broad application prospects in the field of electric vehicles.
- Adapt to a Variety of Application Scenarios
Prismatic cells are not only suitable for electric vehicles but can also be widely used in energy storage systems, smart homes and other fields. This diverse application scenario further enhances the market competitiveness of prismatic batteries.
However, behind the high flexibility is a low degree of standardization, and it is challenging to achieve unified processes. Therefore, there is still room for reducing the manufacturing cost of prismatic battery packaging technology.
Conclusion
For automotive manufacturers, the safety requirements for batteries are influenced by a multitude of factors. These include variations in battery performance, the vehicle’s operating environment, applicable safety standards, regulations, and the technical capabilities of each manufacturer. Different companies have distinct specifications prismatic battery safety vents. Consequently, specific values are tailored to fit the battery type and design requirements, leading to the development of various explosion-proof disc types. As technology advances and safety awareness increases, the focus on battery safety is becoming a pivotal aspect of the automotive manufacturing sector. Therefore, when selecting an appropriate explosion-proof disc solution, it is essential to make informed decisions based on real-world conditions and specific needs to ensure the safety and reliability of the battery system.
Hejustamping-Experienced Prismatic Battery Safety Vents Manufacturer
Dongguan Heju Precision Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. is a company specializing in the production of prismatic battery safety vents for new energy vehicle. It is one of the earliest companies in China to develop and produce lithium battery safety vents. It has many models and comprehensive specifications. The single pressure range can reach 0.03MPA and CPK>2.0. It can cooperate with customers in the development of new products and has passed the three major management system certifications of ISO9001, ISO14001, and IATF16949. It continues to provide high-quality services to well-known domestic battery companies such as Xinwangda, Zhongxinhang, Guoxuan High-tech, Haichen Energy Storage, Zhengli New Energy, and Ruipu Lanjun. The daily production capacity reaches millions to meet your production capacity needs.