Where is the production location of Tesla batteries?
3 Answers
Tesla batteries are produced at the Gigafactory in Nevada, USA, and the batteries used in Tesla vehicles are all 18650 lithium batteries. Tesla's vehicle models 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-size SUV category, with body dimensions of: length 5037mm, width 2070mm, height 1684mm, wheelbase 2965mm, and curb weight 2352kg. The 2021 Model X features a front suspension of double-wishbone independent suspension and a rear suspension of multi-link independent suspension. It is equipped with a front permanent magnet synchronous motor and a rear AC asynchronous motor, with a total motor power of 493kW, paired with a 1-speed fixed gear ratio transmission.
I remember Tesla mentioned the battery origins during last year's product launch. Tesla's battery sources are quite diversified, with different models using batteries from different production locations. For example, the Standard Range versions use lithium iron phosphate batteries from China's CATL, while the Long Range versions may use ternary lithium batteries from South Korea's LG or Japan's Panasonic. The Model 3 produced at Shanghai Gigafactory mainly uses CATL batteries, while the US factory primarily utilizes batteries from the Nevada Gigafactory in collaboration with Panasonic. The 4680 battery is Tesla's own development, currently in trial production at Texas factory. The salesperson told me when choosing a car that batteries from different origins may show slight differences in winter range performance, though the daily usage difference is minimal.
Last week when I accompanied my friend to pick up his Model Y, I specifically asked the salesperson about the battery origin. Currently, Tesla uses batteries from several suppliers depending on the region and model. Vehicles from the Shanghai factory are mainly equipped with CATL batteries, while the US and European factories use Panasonic and LG products. What surprised me most is that Tesla has started producing its own 4680 batteries, though the current volume is still small. My friend's long-range version showed a Korean-made battery in the system when the salesperson checked. I heard that 4680 batteries have higher energy density and better fast-charging performance, but they're only installed in new models. If battery performance is important to you, it's better to ask about the specific battery supplier for the model in advance.
