What kind of battery does Tesla use?
4 Answers
Tesla uses 18650 lithium batteries. The models under Tesla include: Model S, Model X, Model Y, Model 3, Roadster, etc. Taking the 2021 Model X as an example, it belongs to the mid-to-large SUV category, with body dimensions of: length 5037mm, width 2070mm, height 1684mm, wheelbase of 2965mm, and a curb weight of 2352kg. The 2021 Model X features a front double-wishbone independent suspension and a rear multi-link independent suspension. It is equipped with a front permanent magnet synchronous and rear AC asynchronous motor, with a total motor power of 493kW, paired with a 1-speed fixed gear ratio transmission.
Tesla currently primarily uses lithium-ion batteries, with different models having specific variations. Previously, the Model S and X used Panasonic's 18650 cylindrical batteries, which are 18mm in diameter and 65mm in height, resembling an enlarged version of regular batteries. Later, the Model 3/Y switched to 21700 batteries, with a diameter of 21mm and increased capacity, improving energy density by about 20%. The Cybertruck, which began deliveries this year, uses the latest 4680 batteries, which are thicker and offer even higher capacity, with reportedly better thermal performance. Entry-level models like the Model 3 Standard Range use CATL's lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which have more noticeable range reduction in winter but offer higher safety.
As someone who has dismantled Tesla battery packs, I must say Tesla excels at battery management systems. Their battery packs consist of thousands of small cells - the 18650 uses lithium cobalt oxide, while the 21700 began employing nickel-cobalt-aluminum ternary materials. The 4680 battery notably adopts dry electrode technology, eliminating traditional solvent processes for more eco-friendly production. Recently, I've noticed standard range versions equipped with CATL's lithium iron phosphate batteries, which exhibit exceptional cycle life. I've seen cases where ride-hailing vehicles reached 500,000 km with battery health still at 87%.
A Model 3 owner shares that the salesperson clearly stated during purchase that the Long Range version uses LG's NCM lithium-ion battery, while the Standard version uses CATL's LFP battery. I chose the LFP version, which allows full charging without damaging the battery. Although it drains faster in winter, I saved 60,000 RMB. The new rear-wheel-drive Model Y also uses LFP batteries, as indicated by the 'LFP' marking on the battery nameplate.
