Tesla has been diligently working on developing its dry cathode technology for several years, facing various challenges along the way. However, recent reports suggest that these efforts are finally coming to fruition as the highly anticipated Cybertruck equipped with dry cathodes is set to debut in just a few months.
2023 saw the launch of the Cybertruck with a starting price of $100,000, a significant deviation from CEO Elon Musk’s initial target of $40,000. Since then, prices have decreased by approximately $20,000 for the AWD and Cyberbeast trims, with the former also qualifying for a federal tax credit. Now, Tesla is reportedly preparing to introduce a new battery for the Cybertruck that could potentially reduce costs. Whether these cost savings will be passed on to consumers remains uncertain.
The introduction of dry cathodes in the Cybertruck marks a significant milestone for Tesla. Dry cathodes are created without the use of liquid solvents, which are typically found in traditional lithium-ion batteries. Instead, the cathode material is applied in dry powder form, offering potential cost savings and environmental benefits. While dry electrode batteries still utilize liquid electrolytes for electron transfer, studies suggest that this technology may pave the way for solid-state batteries in the future.
Tesla estimates that the shift to dry cathodes could save up to $1 billion in production costs. Sources familiar with the timeline indicate that Cybertrucks equipped with the upgraded cells could be just a couple of months away.
Currently, the Cybertruck features a 123-kilowatt-hour battery pack with nickel-cobalt-manganese cells. Last year, Tesla announced plans for four new battery types for its next-generation models, including the Robotaxi, an affordable EV, and the Cybertruck.
Despite facing challenges throughout the development process, Tesla remained committed to its dry cathode program. The journey began over five years ago with the acquisition of San Diego-based Maxwell Technologies in 2019 for $218 million. However, the program encountered setbacks, such as an uneven mixture of dry cathode metals damaging the steel rollers used in battery production.
In a significant breakthrough last year, Tesla announced the validation of vehicle testing for the first prototype Cybertruck produced with in-house dry cathode 4680 cells. This milestone represents a major cost reduction achievement for the company, with cost reduction remaining a top priority across its product lineup.
While the transition to dry cathodes may not be revolutionary, it signifies Tesla’s ongoing commitment to battery innovations. More details may emerge during Tesla’s Q1 2025 earnings call in early April.
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