Tesla may be coming out with a new generation of batteries with the promise of improved weight, density, and performance.
If true, this could be a gamechanger for Tesla, as it is in a better-battery race akin to the Apollo program of the 1960s. Other EV automakers are putting serious money and manpower research as well into building batteries that will take their models further than what their competitors have to offer.
While analysts and automakers have made many predictions about when to expect the next super battery, it is no surprise that many potential future EV shoppers are still holding off until EV automakers master fears of range anxiety and charging inconveniences.
So, when will Tesla come out with a game-changing EV battery?
Here Comes the "NC" Line
According to a recent Ryan Shaw Tech YouTube channel episode, that expectation may be fulfilled as early as 2026 with battery cells that could be a marked improvement over the 4680 cells used today. The new cell designs are expected to result in better and―dare we breathe it out loud―cheaper EVs?!
Whether or not this will prove true, Tesla R&D reportedly has four new cell types with the NC prefix meaning "New Cell" with the first dubbed "NC05". The NC05 is intended to be an easy-to-manufacture cell to power the Cybercab and other lower-cost Tesla models, states the host.
Two cell types dubbed NC20 and NC30 are designed for Tesla's expected SUV lineup as well as for powering future Cybertruck models. However, they may also wind up in new variants of the model X and Y.
The NC20/30 are larger format cells with more power to take up the slack when it comes to the 4680 cells' inability for handling heavier vehicles and/or towing, which is a weakness of the 4680, especially under cold weather conditions.
The new battery design is expected push the envelope and allow the Cybertruck to exceed the 500-mile mark.
Speaking of design, the new cell types reportedly will be made with silicon carbon (SiC) anodes that are purported to move electrons faster than current anode types. This will benefit both charging time and power output.
The Numbers Get Bigger for Performance Models
The host also discusses the NC50 cell, which is expected to outfit high-performance Tesla models like the Plaid and the much-anticipated Tesla Roadster as well as the Beast and other Performance variant models.
For more details about this new Tesla battery announcement, see the video posted below, which covers the timepoint 0:00 to 5:50. The remaining video discusses other interesting Tesla-related matters, including the anticipated Model Y Juniper model and additional Cybertruck news.
4 New Tesla Batteries Announced | A New Reason To Upgrade?
For additional articles related to EV battery development, here are a few for your consideration:
- Where EV Shoppers Have It Wrong on EV Batteries
- China's Version of Tesla Could Out Tesla, Tesla!
- Why Lithium is Not Kryptonite for ICE Enthusiasts
Timothy Boyer is an automotive reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWritesfor daily news and topics related to new and used cars and trucks.
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