SAMSUNG SDI announced today the commencement of production for its 46-series cylindrical batteries, featuring a diameter of 46 millimeters. This marks the company’s introduction of the next generation of cylindrical batteries, aimed initially at the micro mobility sector with plans for expansion into electric vehicles (EVs).
SAMSUNG SDI is the first Korean battery manufacturer to supply 46-series batteries to international customers. The company celebrated the first shipment of 4,695 battery modules from its subsidiary in Vietnam, which will be delivered to an American customer for use in micro mobility applications. These batteries are produced at SAMSUNG SDI’s facility in Cheonan, South Chungcheong Province, South Korea, and assembled into modules in Vietnam.
The production of the 46-series batteries began over a year ahead of schedule, leveraging SAMSUNG SDI’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, technological innovations, and stringent quality management. The 46-series batteries incorporate high-nickel NCA (Nickel, Cobalt, and Aluminum) cathodes and a proprietary SCN (Silicon Carbon Nanocomposite) anode. This combination enhances both energy density and battery lifespan while minimizing swelling to improve safety.
Additionally, the 46-series features a tabless design, which connects the electrodes directly to the current collectors. This design modification has optimized the current flow path, reducing internal resistance by 90% and thereby increasing efficiency. Compared to the previous 21700 model, the 46-series offers approximately six times the energy capacity, allowing for fewer cells to achieve the same capacity.
SAMSUNG SDI unveiled its 46-series lineup, which includes four sizes (4680, 4695, 46100, and 46120), at InterBattery 2025, Korea’s largest battery industry trade show, earlier this month. The company has announced that mass production will begin within the first quarter of this year.
Currently, SAMSUNG SDI is in discussions with major EV manufacturers to supply the 46-series batteries, with expectations to supply EV makers in the near future. According to SNE Research, the global market for 46-series cylindrical batteries is projected to grow from 155 GWh in 2025 to 650 GWh by 2030, reflecting an annual growth rate of 33 percent.
A SAMSUNG SDI official stated, “With the initial supply of 46-series batteries, the company has diversified its product portfolio. We will continue our efforts to lead the 46-series market through differentiated manufacturing technology and quality.”
Source: Samsung SDI
