Each format has its own unique advantages and drawbacks. For instance, prismatic cells offer superior packing capacity, pouch cells are highly portable, while cylindrical cells are reliable and easy to scale up for large manufacturing. In order to meet the needs of their customers, manufacturers such as LG Chem, Samsung, SK Innovation, CATL, and Gotion are all expanding their product lines and investing in various formats.
Samsung is concentrating on prismatic batteries as it will be supplying Volkswagen with these cells for its electric vehicles. Meanwhile, SK Innovation is betting on the pouch format and supplying major automakers including Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Hyundai, and Kia.
Farasis, in collaboration with Daimler and Geely, is betting on pouch-type batteries, while Chinese battery makers CATL and Gotion have both opted for the prismatic format. Panasonic, thanks to its partnership with Tesla, has risen to become the third-largest supplier of lithium batteries in the world. Panasonic produces cylindrical cells, which is Elon Musk’s preferred format.
Envision AESC, the official supplier for Nissan’s Leaf model, has chosen to produce pouch cells. Finally, Verkor has selected the pouch alternative for the gigafactory that will be constructed in Grenoble in 2023, while the Swedish company Northvolt has already created its first 100% European battery cell in prismatic format.
Regarding the format that could influence the development of battery technology, there is no clear industry consensus. Various manufacturers and end-users are placing bets on different and customized alternatives in an effort to create the best solution for their needs and challenges. It is essential to understand the features and advantages that each option offers in order to make informed decisions.
Source: CicEnergiGune
