Despite skeptics attempting to undermine the significance of electric vehicles (EVs), the truth persists: EVs are the future of transportation. The latest breakthrough comes from SK On, a leading South Korean battery manufacturer, known for its innovative strides in the industry.
SK On, a trailblazer in battery production, has officially initiated the development of the 4680 battery. This cylindrical battery, previously popularized by Tesla, holds the potential to reshape the EV market. With billions invested in advancing battery technology, SK On aims to secure its position as a major player in the EV revolution.
The 4680 battery, touted as a game-changer, boasts superior performance and cost efficiency compared to its predecessors. Offering five times the energy density and six times the output of Tesla’s 2170 battery, it promises an extended EV range and reduced manufacturing costs. This innovation positions SK On to become a significant player, not only in South Korea but globally.
SK On’s journey into cylindrical batteries represents a strategic expansion of its product portfolio, which previously focused on pouch and prismatic batteries. This move is seen as a response to industry critiques, as competitors like LG Energy Solution and Samsung SDI diversified their offerings.
Facing technical challenges in development, SK On’s roadmap targets mass production of the 4680 battery by the end of 2026. The company is actively investing in R&D and constructing a pilot production line, projecting operational readiness by the second half of 2026.
As global demand for the 4680 battery grows, SK On is gearing up to meet the challenge. Competitors like LG Energy Solution and Samsung SDI are also entering the race. The 4680 cylindrical battery market is projected to witness substantial growth, reaching 650 GWatt-hour by 2030, making it a dominant force in EVs.
In a strategic move, SK On’s collaboration with Ford, through the joint venture ‘blue oval SK,’ positions the company as a key player in the US EV market. Backed by a $9.2 billion loan from the US Energy Department, the joint venture plans to build three battery plants, with an annual capacity of 129 GWatt-hours.*
SK On’s journey towards the 4680 battery marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of EV technology. As the competition intensifies, SK On is poised to make a lasting impact, shaping the future of electric mobility.*
