Category: EV vehicles

June 22, 2025
Tesla Launches Monthly Windshield Protection Plan in the US from $12
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla has introduced a Windshield Protection plan starting at $12 a month in the US.
2. The plan covers one complimentary front windshield replacement per year, unlimited chip and small crack repairs, and camera system recalibration.
3. The subscription costs vary: $12/month for Model 3 and Model Y, $15 for Model S, and $23 for Model X.
4. Tesla owners can sign up via the mobile app within 30 days of vehicle purchase; existing owners can join starting later in July after a service center check.
5. The plan does not cover damages from vandalism, accidents, or acts of nature; windshield replacement can cost over $1,000.
Windshield damage can really hit your wallet hard, especially if you have to get a new one. But Tesla has quietly introduced a new product to help ease the worries of their customers. They now provide a Windshield Protection plan that starts at just $12 a month in the US.
Pricing Details
For the Model 3 and Model Y, you can protect your windshield for only $12 a month, while the Model S costs $15. If you own a Model X, the subscription is available for $23. Currently, there’s no information available regarding the Cybertruck.
Coverage of the Plan
This new protection plan includes one complimentary front windshield replacement within a year (note that rear window glass is not included). It also takes care of unlimited chip and small crack repairs, plus it recalibrates the camera system for Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD). Customers can opt for additional windshield replacements by paying $100 for each extra incident.
Subscription Process
Tesla owners can sign up for this plan via the company’s mobile app. However, they must enroll within 30 days after receiving their new or used vehicle. Existing Tesla owners will be able to join starting later in July, but their vehicles will need to be checked at a service center first. There’s no long-term commitment needed, so you can cancel the subscription whenever you want.
As a point of reference, replacing a windshield on a Tesla can cost over $1,000. Tesla emphasizes that this plan does not cover damages caused by vandalism, accidents, or acts of nature.
Source:
Link
Tags: Model 3, Model Y
June 21, 2025
Tesla Model Y Subscription: Affordable Out-of-Warranty Repairs
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla has launched a new subscription service called the Extended Service Agreement (ESA) for out-of-warranty repairs on the Model X, Model S, Model 3, and Model Y.
2. The ESA for the Model Y costs $60 per month and can extend coverage for an additional four years or 100,000 miles after the initial warranty ends.
3. Monthly fees for the ESA vary by model: $50 for the Model 3, $125 for the Model S, and $150 for the Model X.
4. Each ESA repair visit includes a $100 deductible and does not cover consumables or bodywork related to accidents and wear and tear.
5. The ESA subscription is not available for leased vehicles, but Tesla will offer an option for customers to enroll if they choose to buy their leased vehicle later this year.
Tesla has introduced a new subscription service for post-warranty repairs on its Model X, Model S, Model 3, and Model Y for the first time.
New Service Details
The new Extended Service Agreement (ESA) will provide coverage for out-of-warranty repairs on the Model Y at a rate of $60 per month once the initial warranty of four years or 50,000 miles is up. Before this, the extended warranty for the Model Y was limited to an additional 24 months or 75,000 miles total; however, with the ESA subscription, it can now extend for another four years or 100,000 miles, making the warranty period align with that of the battery and drivetrain.
Warranty Insights
Tesla vehicles have always come with an 8-year warranty for the battery and drive units, covering either 100,000 or 120,000 miles, based on the model. Now, the ESA can extend this coverage to the entire vehicle. The cost for the Extended Service Agreement for the Model 3 is $50 per month, while the Model S will be priced at $125. The highest monthly fee for out-of-warranty repairs falls on the Model X, costing $150 per month.
Important Considerations
Each ESA repair visit has a deductible of $100 and does not include consumables like the 12V battery or any bodywork related to accidents, modifications, and usual wear and tear. However, Tesla does cover repairs or replacements that are necessary to fix failures of most parts made or supplied by the company. Customers will begin to receive offers to join the new ESA subscription service in the final three months of their standard 48-month warranty.
The subscription for out-of-warranty repairs is not available for leased vehicles; however, later this year, Tesla plans to give those who want to buy their leased vehicle an option to sign up for the new ESA service.
Source:
Link
Tags: Model Y, Tesla
June 20, 2025
Tesla Launches Model Y Robotaxi Rides on Exclusive App
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla’s Robotaxi platform will have a specialized hailing app showing all ride charges in US dollars, including airport fees and cleaning costs.
2. The launch event for the Robotaxi service is scheduled for June 22 in Austin, with media and influencers invited.
3. Early Access testing is currently invite-only, with Model Y robotaxis operating from 6 AM to midnight and no airport trips allowed initially.
4. Safety features include a “Tesla Safety Monitor” and the ability to suspend service during bad weather, along with privacy measures for cabin cameras and microphones.
5. The Robotaxi service is being rolled out as an invitation-only experience, with selected users able to download the app on iOS and Android.
Tesla’s Robotaxi ride-share platform is set to feature a specialized hailing app that will detail all charges in US dollars, including fees for airports and possible vehicle cleaning.
Launch Event in Austin
Tesla has begun reaching out to various media figures and influencers in the automotive field, inviting them to the grand unveiling of the Robotaxi platform in Austin on Sunday, June 22.
Early Access Testing
Currently, the Early Access testing phase is exclusive to invitees. The Model Y robotaxis will operate in a specific area from 6 AM to midnight. Initially, those invited won’t be able to use the service to go to the airport, even though Tesla states that “charges for rides are clearly shown in the Robotaxi app in U.S. dollars, and may include applicable tolls, airport fees, regulatory charges, and similar costs in connection with the ride.”
Safety and Privacy Features
Tesla seems to be taking thorough measures to ensure the safety and privacy of its newly launched Robotaxi ride-share service. For instance, it will include a “Tesla Safety Monitor,” which is an employee equipped with a brake pedal and emergency stop buttons, similar to those seen in the leaked Model Y robotaxi interface.
The electric vehicle manufacturer also has the ability to suspend the Robotaxi service during bad weather. They assure users that the cabin camera will be disabled throughout the ride, unless passengers request help from the platform’s service center. However, the cabin microphones will remain active to detect sirens when the Model Y needs to yield to emergency vehicles. Still, these microphones won’t send any sound to Tesla unless the user engages with support or calls 911.
Invitation-Only Experience
These measures for safety and privacy could be why Tesla is rolling out the Robotaxi service as an invite-only experience, similar to the automotive influencers who participated in the Cybertruck launch events. Tesla welcomes their feedback at all times and clarifies that, for now, they are the only ones able to download the Robotaxi app on both iOS and Android platforms.
Source:
Link
Tags: Model Y, Robotaxi, Tesla
June 20, 2025
Ford Recalls 300,000 Mustang Mach-Es for Faulty Door Locks
Key Takeaways
1. Ford is recalling over 300,000 Mustang Mach-E vehicles due to a door lock issue that can trap passengers inside.
2. The problem is linked to software managing the 12-volt battery, which can prevent doors from opening when the battery charge is low.
3. Rear doors are especially risky, lacking mechanical overrides, which may endanger younger passengers.
4. Approximately 200,000 affected vehicles are in the US, with additional numbers in Canada and other countries.
5. Owners will need to visit dealerships for reprogramming, as a simple over-the-air update is not possible; a fix is expected by the third quarter of 2025.
Ford has announced a worldwide recall and halt on sales for the Mustang Mach-E due to an issue with the door locks. This problem may trap passengers inside, creating a serious safety hazard during emergencies. The safety alert from the American automotive company impacts over 300,000 Mustang Mach-E vehicles made from 2021 to 2025.
Problem Identified
Ford has pinpointed the issue to the software that manages the 12-volt battery. When the battery charge falls below 8.4 volts, the front doors can retain their last locked or unlocked state. Consequently, when passengers get out and manually close the door, it might not open again from the outside.
Risks for Rear Passengers
The rear doors are at even greater risk as they lack mechanical overrides, which could leave younger passengers vulnerable to being trapped inside the vehicle.
Approximately 200,000 of the affected Mustang Mach-E vehicles are in the US, while another 32,500 are located in Canada. Additionally, Ford will address over 120,000 electric vehicles in other countries. The company has instructed dealers to stop all deliveries and test drives until a solution is found.
Complicated Fix Ahead
However, the solution is not as simple as an over-the-air update. Vehicle owners will need to visit their dealerships for reprogramming of the powertrain. Ford aims to have a fix ready by the third quarter of 2025 and will communicate the details via email.
Source:
Link
Tags: Ford, Mustang Mach-E
June 20, 2025
2026 Chevy Silverado EV Pickup: Up to 493 Miles Range
Key Takeaways
1. The 2026 Chevy Silverado EV offers an impressive driving range of up to 493 miles on a single charge.
2. It comes in three main trims: Standard Work Truck ($54,895, 286 miles), Extended ($68,295, 424 miles), and Max ($76,295, 493 miles).
3. The rugged Trail Boss trim is designed for off-road enthusiasts, featuring enhanced suspension and Terrain Mode, with a towing capacity of 12,500 lbs.
4. The Trail Boss can generate up to 760 hp and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.
5. The interior features advanced technology, including an 11-inch display, a 14-inch Head-Up Display, and a 17.7-inch touch-sensitive central display.
If you’re in the market for an electric pickup truck that boasts a substantial driving range, look no further than Chevy. The American automobile manufacturer has just unveiled the 2026 Silverado EV, which offers an impressive range of up to 493 miles on a single charge, along with a version designed for adventure lovers.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The Silverado EV is available in three different trims. The Standard Work Truck provides a range of up to 286 miles (all range estimates are based on EPA data unless stated otherwise) and has a starting price of $54,895. The Extended model is priced at $68,295 and offers up to 424 miles of driving range. For those looking for the maximum range, the Max trim is available for $76,295, allowing for an exceptional range of 493 miles.
Additional Variants
The Standard LT trim has the lowest range at 283 miles, with a price tag of $62,995. In contrast, the Extended version is nearly $10,000 higher, offering a driving range of 410 miles. The Max trim can reach up to 478 miles before needing a recharge but comes at a higher cost of $91,295.
The rugged Trail Boss trim caters to off-road fans with two different versions. The Extended variant can travel 410 miles for $72,095, while the Max version boasts a range of 478 miles (as estimated by GM) and is priced at $88,695.
Off-Road Features
The Trail Boss is designed with enhanced suspension and increased ground clearance to handle rough terrains. Chevy has included a Terrain Mode to improve driving performance, along with unique features like special branding, 35-inch tires, and vibrant red tow hooks.
In terms of performance, the new Trail Boss can generate up to 760 hp and 775 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds and has a towing capacity of 12,500 lbs. The truck bed can handle approximately 2,100 lbs of payload.
Interior Technology
Inside the vehicle, drivers will find an 11-inch display along with a 14-inch Head-Up Display (HUD). The central display measures 17.7 inches diagonally and is touch-sensitive, making it user-friendly for all.
Source:
Link
Tags: Chevy Silverado EV, electric pickup truck
June 19, 2025
Tesla Robotaxi Interface Leaks on Model Y as Texas Demands Delay
Key Takeaways
1. Texas lawmakers are urging Tesla to delay the launch of its driverless Robotaxi service until new regulations take effect on September 1.
2. Texas has relaxed rules for autonomous vehicles, requiring only standard registration and insurance, unlike stricter regulations in California.
3. Tesla’s Model Y vehicles for the Robotaxi service already meet many legislative requirements, but some aspects still need validation before the launch.
4. The Robotaxi service will focus on geofenced urban areas, with human operators on standby for safety, similar to Waymo’s approach.
5. A developer interface for the Robotaxi service has been spotted, featuring safety buttons, though it’s unclear if they will be included in the final design.
As Tesla is preparing to kick off its first rides with the driverless Robotaxi service in Austin on June 22, a group of lawmakers from Texas have penned a letter urging the company to delay the launch.
Texas Regulations Favor Tesla
Tesla chose Austin for its relaxed rules concerning autonomous vehicles, unlike stricter regulations in places like California. In Texas, the laws for autonomous cars are similar to those for regular vehicles, requiring only standard registration and insurance.
However, the lawmakers are introducing new legislation regarding autonomous vehicles that will take effect on September 1. They are requesting that Tesla hold off on the Robotaxi launch until this date. The letter states, “Under the new framework, commercial autonomous vehicle operators transporting passengers or property must receive prior authorization from the Department of Motor Vehicles before operating on public streets without a human driver.”
Compliance with Legislative Requirements
The 2026 Model Y vehicles that Tesla currently uses for testing the Robotaxi service in Austin already meet many of the requirements set forth in the new legislation. Some aspects, such as being “capable of achieving a minimal risk condition if the automated driving system is rendered inoperable,” may still need to be proven for Tesla to move forward with the service prior to the new rules being enforced. Other requirements include being able to communicate with emergency responders, but Tesla has already completed the necessary training in Austin.
Tesla is set to roll out the Robotaxi service with approximately a dozen new Model Y vehicles that have been operating around Austin for some time now, featuring the new ride-share logo that can be observed below. There have been multiple sightings of these driverless Model Ys, which seem to have a test passenger either in the front or back seat.
Developer Interface Insights
Interestingly, someone was able to capture a photo of the developer interface for the Robotaxi service while waiting at a traffic light. The user interface features a 3D map along with two prominent buttons marked “Pull Over” and “Emergency Stop.” It remains unclear if these buttons will be included in the final design of the Robotaxi interface, but Elon Musk has emphasized that safety will take precedence during the pilot launch of the service.
Tesla is taking a page from Waymo’s playbook by focusing on geofenced urban areas that it has thoroughly mapped to minimize risks. Additionally, human operators will be on standby to assist, similar to Waymo’s approach.
As shown in the video below, Tesla is currently conducting a second validation run on these city streets to fine-tune how the Model Y’s camera-only FSD interprets the mapped geofenced areas.
Source:
Link
Tags: Model Y, Robotaxi, Tesla
June 19, 2025
2026 Nissan Leaf: 303-Mile Range, 28-Inch Display, Bose Audio
Key Takeaways
1. Design and Technology: The 2026 Nissan Leaf features a katana-blade design inspired by the Nissan Z sports car, with dual 14.3-inch displays integrating Google services.
2. Impressive Range and Performance: Different grades offer ranges of 256 to 303 miles, powered by efficient motors and a 75 kWh battery, with a focus on low drag for better efficiency.
3. Fast Charging and Battery Protection: The Leaf can charge from 10% to 80% in 35 minutes and includes features to protect the battery in cold temperatures, along with vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology.
4. Interior Features and Connectivity: All models include 5G NissanConnect, with higher trims offering advanced audio systems and extensive smartphone connectivity options.
5. Enhanced Safety Features: The Leaf is equipped with a 360-degree camera view, ProPILOT Assist for safer driving, and Nissan Safety Shield 360 technologies to prevent collisions.
Nissan has revealed the new 2026 Nissan Leaf electric vehicle, showcasing a katana-blade design inspired by the Nissan Z sports car. This model features an electrochromic panoramic roof and comes equipped with dual 14.3-inch displays that integrate Google services.
Impressive Range and Power
The Leaf offers various range options: the S+ grade provides 303 miles (488 km), the SV+ grade offers 288 miles (463 km), and the Platinum+ grade has a range of 256 miles (412 km). This efficiency is attributed to a low drag coefficient of 0.26 and flush door handles. All Leaf trims, including S+, SV+, and Platinum+, are powered by a 160 kW motor that delivers 214 HP and 261 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 75 kWh liquid-cooled battery. The S grade features a smaller 130 kW motor with 174 HP and 254 lb-ft torque, combined with a 52 kWh battery.
Fast Charging and Battery Protection
The charging capabilities are noteworthy, allowing the vehicle to recharge from 10% to 80% in just 35 minutes when using either NACS or J1772 fast chargers. To safeguard the battery against cold winter temperatures, it comes with a heat-retaining resin cover and a waste heat recovery system, plus an optional battery heater. All Leaf EVs are equipped with vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology, providing up to 1,500 W of 120 V AC power for running appliances during car camping trips. An optional electrochromic panoramic roof offers stunning views of the night sky.
Nissan Energy Charge Network can be accessed through the MyNissan app, making it easy for owners to locate chargers and make payments. The integrated displays on the SV+ and Platinum+ grades also feature Google Assistant, Maps, and Play Store, along with Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and SiriusXM 360. Google Maps can generate routes that automatically include charging stops, ensuring the Leaf arrives with the preferred charge level.
Interior Features and Connectivity
The S and S+ trims come with 12.3-inch displays that provide only Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for smartphone mirroring, in addition to Amazon Alexa and SiriusXM 360. All models are equipped with 5G NissanConnect, allowing features like remote door locking via smartphone.
Basic trims have two front USB-C ports for charging smartphones, while the higher trims include two rear ports and a wireless charging pad. The Platinum+ grade is equipped with a 10-speaker Bose Personal Plus sound system, featuring speakers in the front headrests for an enhanced audio experience. Other trims come with either four or six-speaker systems.
Enhanced Safety Features
The displays offer a 360-degree view when parking and reversing, thanks to the 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor cameras. ProPILOT Assist provides additional driving safety by keeping the car centered within lanes and maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead in stop-and-go traffic. The Nissan Safety Shield 360 technologies help prevent collisions with pedestrians and other vehicles when reversing or navigating intersections.
The 2026 Nissan Leaf is expected to hit the market this fall, although pricing details have yet to be released. For those who collect Matchbox cars, the Leaf would make a great addition to their collection.
Source:
Link
Tags: electric vehicle, Nissan Leaf
June 18, 2025
Global Release of Six-Seat Model Y with Extended Wheelbase
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla is launching a six-seat version of the Model Y, confirmed by firmware code and insider information from Giga Shanghai.
2. The six-seater Model Y will be available globally, not just in China, due to demand in other markets.
3. Tesla currently offers a 7-seat Model Y with limited space, with potential plans for more seating configurations in the future.
4. The six-seat Model Y may include a longer wheelbase and individual captain seats, enhancing passenger comfort.
5. Each seat in the six-seat Model Y will provide ample legroom and armrests for improved comfort for all passengers.
Tesla is set to launch a six-seat version of the Model Y, as insiders from Giga Shanghai have hinted at this new variant. Recent findings in Tesla’s firmware code support the existence of this model, confirming that it is indeed in the works.
Global Launch Expected
Interestingly, the latest code suggests that the Model Y six-seater will be available globally, rather than being limited to the Chinese market as initially believed. In China, family SUVs with six captain seats are highly sought after, but Tesla may be recognizing the potential success of this model in other regions too.
Current Offerings
At the moment, Tesla does not offer a traditional three-row SUV designed for larger families. Instead, they previously provided a 7-seat version of the Model Y, which adds two small and not very spacious seats in the trunk area. There may still be plans for a Model Y seven-seater in the future, similar to the three seating configurations available for the Model X.
Pricing and Interior Features
The six-seat version of the Model X is the priciest interior option, costing an extra $6,500. This variant features full-size seats arranged with an aisle between them, replacing the standard second-row bench. The refreshed 2026 Model X will have slightly more legroom in the back, thanks to its larger body.
Tesla might adopt a comparable design for the six-seat Model Y, featuring a longer wheelbase and four individual captain seats, along with two additional seats in the trunk. The latest Model Y introduces innovative seat folding mechanisms that operate with just a button, so the six-seat model could also include smart ways to adjust the seating layout.
Comfort for All Passengers
Having a six-seat Model Y will certainly enhance comfort for five adults, as each will have their own seat complete with armrests and ample legroom, even for those in the rear supplemental seats.
Source:
Link
Tags: Model Y, six-seat SUV, Tesla
June 18, 2025
Tesla HW5 FSD Computer Specs Leaked: TSMC and Samsung Production
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla is ordering the next-generation AI5/HW5 chip, expected to achieve performance between 2000 and 2500 TOPS, significantly faster than the current HW4 computer.
2. TSMC is likely the main foundry for the AI5 chip production, with Samsung as a backup for mass shipping in 2026.
3. Enhanced camera features are expected with the AI5/HW5 kit, including weather-proof cameras that can melt ice or snow quickly.
4. Tesla plans to start outfitting vehicles with AI5/HW5 FSD hardware by the end of the year, possibly aiming for a holiday sales boost.
5. Elon Musk hinted at a new FSD 14 version with fourfold improvements, but it remains unclear if HW5 is necessary for its operation.
While Tesla is working hard to fit its unsupervised FSD algorithms into the existing HW3 computer that makes up most of its vehicles, it has already started ordering the next-generation HW5 chip, now referred to as AI5.
Orders and Performance Expectations
These orders are going to both TSMC and Samsung foundries, and insiders from Korea are saying that the Tesla AI5/HW5 FSD computer is expected to achieve performance between 2000 and 2500 TOPS (trillion operations per second). This represents a speed increase of five times compared to the current HW4 computer, which is found in the latest Model Y and can smoothly run unsupervised FSD. The launch of the pilot Tesla Robotaxi platform is planned for the week of June 21, featuring around a dozen driverless Model Y units equipped with the AI4 hardware kit, which will operate in Austin without supervision.
Future Production Plans
There are rumors that Tesla has chosen TSMC for the production process of its 3nm N3P chip and may become one of their largest customers as TSMC ramps up production of the AI5/HW5 FSD processor later this year. Tesla is keeping Samsung as a backup foundry for its AI5 chip, but it’s said that they will only rely on Samsung’s production in 2026 when they begin mass shipping HW5 vehicles.
At this point, it’s uncertain what additional enhancements the AI5/HW5 Tesla FSD hardware kit will offer beyond the much quicker computer. However, improved FSD cameras are one rumored upgrade.
Enhanced Camera Features
Reports indicate that Samsung will provide its Weather Proof automotive cameras, which include a heating element embedded directly in the lens rather than running through the cover glass. These cameras retain the 8MP sensors similar to those on the new Model Y, but they can melt ice or snow covering them in under a minute, which will surely be beneficial for users in colder areas looking to utilize FSD.
Tesla already has a cleaning system for the front bumper camera in its newer models, but the new Samsung Weather Proof cameras that might be included in the Tesla HW5 kit also feature a six times tougher coating that is water-repellent. This design will help remove melted snow or ice droplets from the lens, resulting in less distortion when changing lanes or detecting movement, according to Samsung.
Tesla is expected to start outfitting its initial batches of vehicles with AI5/HW5 FSD hardware before the year wraps up, possibly reserving this upgrade for the holiday quarter batches to boost sales.
What’s Next for Tesla FSD?
Elon Musk hinted that the new FSD 14 version, set to release around that time, will show a fourfold improvement across its parameters, leaving it unclear if HW5 will be necessary to operate it. Tesla has promised to retrofit all HW3 vehicles for free with HW4 computers for those who want to try unsupervised FSD if they cannot get it to work on the older hardware.
Source:
Link
Tags: Model Y, Tesla AI5
June 17, 2025
Samsung’s Dry Cell Breakthrough: Cheaper Solid-State Batteries Ahead
Key Takeaways
1. Samsung plans to use the dry production technique for solid-state batteries, aiming to cut manufacturing costs in half by 2027.
2. Competing with major players like Toyota and CATL, Samsung seeks a competitive edge through the advanced dry electrode method utilized by Tesla.
3. The specifications of Samsung’s solid-state batteries include a 500 Wh/kg energy density, 9-minute charging time, and a range of 600 miles per charge.
4. Samsung is focusing on innovative production techniques, such as roll pressing and fiberization, to reduce costs and improve battery efficiency.
5. The use of a unique Teflon binder distinguishes Samsung’s dry electrode method from traditional wet methods, enhancing the battery’s performance and safety.
Samsung is set to use the dry production technique praised by Tesla, which is said to cut battery expenses in half, for its future solid-state batteries.
Aiming for Cost Reduction
The primary aim is to tackle the major obstacle to the widespread use of solid-state batteries in electric vehicles, which is the high manufacturing costs. Samsung plans to roll out these batteries by 2027. Interestingly, both Toyota and CATL, the biggest battery producer globally, have also announced that they will begin mass production of solid-state batteries during the same year.
Competing with Giants
If Samsung can successfully implement the dry electrode production method currently being used by Tesla for the more affordable manufacture of the Cybertruck’s 4680 batteries, it might gain a competitive edge over Chinese companies. This would happen when the advanced battery chemistry is adopted widely in electric vehicles.
Samsung’s solid-state battery specifications are already among the finest in the sector, achieving the technology’s potential of 500 Wh/kg energy density. Thanks to the inherent benefits of solid-state technology, Samsung hinted at a 9-minute charging time and a range of 600 miles on a single charge from a battery pack that matches the size of existing EV batteries.
Focus on Production Costs
More importantly, Samsung is concentrating on reducing the production costs of solid-state batteries, a factor that previously led CATL to predict they wouldn’t be ready for mass production before 2030. However, CATL has since changed its stance, recognizing the rapid advancements in the field and projecting that its own solid-state battery program will be prepared for mass production by 2027.
Samsung is relying on two innovative production techniques to reduce the costs of its solid-state batteries. The first is roll pressing, which eliminates the need for complex sealing of the cell with the Warm Istactic Press method before applying 600 MPa of high-temperature pressure underwater to bond the electrode and electrolyte materials into a solid form.
Introducing Fiberization Process
Recently, Samsung has shared details about a fiberization process that it plans to implement not only in its pilot solid-state battery production line but also in its traditional battery production to significantly lower manufacturing costs.
Samsung identifies the binder as the primary distinction between the more energy-efficient dry electrode technique and the conventional wet method, which involves coating with harmful solvents and drying in large furnaces afterward. Samsung’s Teflon binder is designed to stretch under the pressure of the roll pressing method, creating a “layer that supports the conductive material and the active material.” This results in a separation film that is stronger and more evenly distributed, preventing direct contact between electrodes and solid electrolytes, while still allowing for smooth charge flow between them.
Tesla is working on a similar approach with its dry-cathode battery production technique, but has not yet scaled up production to replace the second-generation 4680 battery, which has a 15% higher energy density and is used in the Cybertruck, in a cost-effective manner.
Source:
Link
Tags: Samsung, Solid State Batteries, Tesla 4680