Cylindrical Cells Are The Real Reason Why Tesla Vehicles Have Impressive Range

Manufacturers such as Tesla, Lucid and Rivian use cylindrical cells. Automakers such as GM and Hyundai are more in favor of pouch cells.

Why cylindrical cells are effective

Cylindrical cells tend to be more reliable. They burn less energy which results in a higher battery range. Tesla is working on the 4680 cells in the meantime. Those cells have a 46mm diameter and are around 80mm in length. Cylindrical cells have also been proven to be more durable when utilized correctly.

In a tweet from last month, Elon Musk spoke out against using large pouch sells. He said they raise the chance of a thermal runaway.

Cost of cylindrical cells

One issue that needs to be fixed is the cost of cylindrical cells. The bigger 4680 cells allow for the vehicle to have more energy, power, and range. They are also said to be a better value than what is currently available. This would be a big upgrade when compared to Tesla’s 2170 cells. Tesla receives the 2170 cells from Panasonic.

There is much work left to be done

There is a lot of work left to be done in order for these battery cell designs to be the best they can be. It is currently difficult to know which battery cells make sense for a given vehicle. It isn’t as simple as putting the same exact battery cells in every vehicle.

Image: Tesla

Daniel Cappo reports Tesla developments at Torque News. He has had a passion for cars ever since age five when his grandparents let him drive their old golf cart around their property in Upstate NY. He has attended numerous auto shows, and even got the chance to drive a Ferrari California on the track. Ever since Tesla opened up a dealership at his local mall, he's been an avid follower of their cars and technology. Dan has a B.S. in Public Communication from U Vermont. Follow Daniel on Twitter and LinkedIn for daily Tesla News.