Samsung SDI ready to roll out 46-series batteries: CEO
Samsung SDI President and CEO Choi Joo-sun said Wednesday the company is poised to start mass production of its new 46-series cylindrical batteries for electric vehicles, an upgraded version of the smaller 21700 batteries.
'We have secured customers for these batteries and have submitted sample products (to them),' said Choi during a press briefing at the InterBattery 2025 exhibition on Wednesday in Gangnam, Seoul, while declining to disclose specifics, citing confidentiality.
The 46-series cylindrical battery, measuring 46 millimeters in diameter, is called a 'game changer' for its enhanced energy capacity and output and an emerging form factor selected by carmakers looking to power their high-performance electric vehicles. Samsung SDI has displayed the new lineup with four variants: 4680, 4695, 46100 and 46120 — all sharing a 46 mm diameter but differing in length (80 mm, 95 mm, 100 mm and 120 mm, respectively) in its exhibition but, while its rival LG Energy Solution also showcased the advanced tech.
Regarding the company's US operations, Choi said, 'This year, we are taking a rather conservative approach on (whether to build) our own North American plant due to a notable decline in the (EV) demand compared to last year. Nonetheless, we are assessing our options, as long-term growth remains a top priority.'
Choi added that the first battery cell manufacturing plant of NextStar Energy in the US, a joint venture with Stellantis, has ramped up production faster than expected, with the US Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit projected to be reflected in the first quarter of this year.
While taking a cautious approach to completing the second plant of NextStar Energy and a joint venture facility with General Motors by 2027 and 2026, respectively, due to a downturn in the EV demand, Choi noted the company is considering meeting the construction deadline for now.
When asked whether Samsung SDI plans to lower the operation rate of its Hungarian plant following Trump's proposed 25 percent tariffs on EU goods, Choi said, 'Our Hungarian facility is currently operating at much lower rates driven by a significant decline in customer demand compared to the past. Unfortunately, I cannot share specific figures (on the rate) due to confidentiality.'
Choi projected that the company is expected to see a turnaround from the second quarter of next year while pledging to advance its technological prowess through investments even in the face of ongoing trade disruptions.
Commenting on the recent business tie-up with Hyundai Motor Group on robotics, Choi hinted at bolstering a partnership with the auto giant on electric vehicles as well.
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