BMW’s latest battery launch is lighting up headlines: could this be the much-awaited EV breakthrough? With new cylindrical cells rolling out of their German facility, the company isn’t just trying to keep up with the electric Joneses—it’s charging ahead with some striking innovations. Let’s look under the hood of what might just spark the next stage of the electric revolution.
Bigger, Better, and Cylindrical: What Makes BMW’s New Cells Stand Out?
- BMW has kicked off production of a fresh type of battery cell—cylindrical in shape and just a tad larger than Tesla’s famous 4680 cells.
- Instead of reusing familiar tech, these batteries employ an adapted chemistry, offering higher capacity right from the get-go.
- The manufacturer is producing the new cells in two sizes to ensure a snug fit in various chassis types—talk about tailoring the power suit!
The development baton was picked up at the Cell Manufacturing Competence Centre in Parsdorf, Germany, where sample production has already begun. These cells are destined for BMW’s upcoming ‘Neue Klasse’ models, slated to hit roads in 2025. By moving away from prism-shaped cells to a cylindrical style, BMW aims for greater future-proofing. The key to this resilience? Silicon. A higher silicon content in the graphite anode adds extra energy density, even if it causes the silicon to swell during charging—a small price for big power.
Specs: Size, Chemistry, and What’s Under the Surface
- The new cylindrical battery cells are 46mm in diameter, available in two heights: 95mm and 120mm.
- That’s a shade taller than the 4680-cells Tesla produces in its Texas Gigafactory.
- BMW opted for two different heights to match vehicle types: 95mm for sedans, 120mm for SUVs.
Here’s where things get more electrifying. Compared to BMW’s fifth-generation prismatic cells, this sixth-generation design features:
- A higher nickel content on the cathode side
- A reduced cobalt percentage (making both environmentalists and nickel miners smile)
- The NMC811 chemical formulation, according to information shared by BMW
The result? According to BMW, these cells boast a volumetric energy density that’s more than twenty percent higher than what the company currently uses. This leap could lead to a range improvement of thirty percent. And for those who hate waiting by the charger, there’s hope: charging could be thirty percent faster, too, with current up to 500A.
High Voltage, High Ambition—And a Lot of Cells
BMW isn’t disclosing every last number, but based on what we know from their current generation of EVs, these new cells should support a charging power of at least 260 to 270kW. Another key twist: They have been specially developed for an 800V system, even though BMW’s present EVs still run on 400V. That’s double the voltage potential, and plenty for future ambitions.
The new factory in Parsdorf is a power-player itself: 15,000 square meters, around eighty employees, and a million cells rolling out each year. That sounds like a lot, but BMW’s far from finished. Production will expand to six other locations across Europe, North America, and China, aiming for a combined annual capacity of up to 20GWh in the future. If battery factories had passports, BMW’s would be a world traveler.
Are We Staring at the Ultimate Breakthrough?
So, does this mean we’re motoring toward the battery holy grail—the one that lasts nearly forever and charges in a flash? While the cells themselves (alas) aren’t immortal, these enhancements push the future of EVs one jolting step closer. With greater energy density, improved charging times, and a chemistry fit for tomorrow’s electric highways, BMW’s latest move is no small jolt to the industry.
Practical advice for EV enthusiasts: Keep your eyes on those ‘Neue Klasse’ models set for 2025. If BMW’s numbers hold up, the competition might soon be chasing their tail lights all the way into the electrified sunset.
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
