Mercedes-Benz Signs Multi-Year EV Battery Deal With Samsung SDI for Next-Gen Electric Vehicles

Mercedes-Benz has signed a multi-year EV battery supply agreement with Samsung SDI, under which Samsung SDI will provide high-energy nickel-manganese-cobalt (NCM) battery cells for Mercedes-Benz’s upcoming generation of electric vehicles.

The agreement marks Samsung SDI’s first EV battery supply partnership with Mercedes-Benz, strengthening the Korean battery maker’s position among Europe’s premium automotive brands. The move is also expected to support Mercedes-Benz’s push to expand its electric vehicle lineup with higher-performance battery technology.

Samsung SDI to Supply High-Nickel NCM Batteries

As part of the deal, Samsung SDI will supply high-nickel NCM battery cells, known for their high energy density, long driving range, long cycle life, and improved safety.

These batteries are expected to power Mercedes-Benz’s future compact and mid-size electric SUVs and coupe models, helping the automaker broaden its EV offerings beyond the luxury flagship segment.

This battery technology is designed to improve range and efficiency while maintaining strong performance standards, which is critical as automakers race to deliver more competitive EVs in the premium segment.

Production to Begin in Hungary in Q2 2026

Production of Mercedes-Benz EVs equipped with Samsung SDI batteries will begin in Q2 2026 at Mercedes-Benz’s manufacturing plant in Kecskemét, Hungary.

This plant will be among the first Mercedes facilities to integrate Samsung SDI battery cells into mass production, with North American deliveries expected to start in early 2027 after the European production ramp-up.

The battery supply flow from Samsung SDI is expected to gradually scale through 2026 to support vehicle production schedules.

Strategic Win for Mercedes-Benz and Samsung SDI

For Mercedes-Benz, the agreement helps diversify its battery supplier base while supporting its larger electrification strategy.

By securing Samsung SDI as a battery partner, Mercedes-Benz gains access to advanced high-performance cells for the next wave of electric SUVs and coupes, reducing reliance on existing suppliers.

For Samsung SDI, the contract is a major strategic milestone. It positions the company as a battery supplier to all three major German premium automakers, expanding its footprint in Europe’s premium EV segment.

The agreement may also pave the way for future collaboration in advanced battery technologies, including solid-state batteries, which are seen as the next major innovation in electric mobility.

Growing Competition in Premium EV Battery Supply

The new partnership highlights intensifying competition in the EV battery sector, where manufacturers are racing to secure long-term supply contracts with global automakers.

For Samsung SDI, winning Mercedes-Benz as a customer boosts its credibility against rivals like CATL, LG Energy Solution, and BYD.

For Mercedes-Benz, the deal ensures access to premium battery technology as the automaker accelerates development of its next-generation electric vehicle portfolio.

With production beginning in 2026, the partnership represents an important step in Mercedes-Benz’s EV transition and Samsung SDI’s efforts to strengthen its role in the global battery supply chain.