Tesla is gearing up to deliver an enormous battery upgrade to its current popular models, Model 3 and Model Y Long Range, in a few selected markets worldwide, and this is one step to raise the bar of energy density and vehicle efficiency. The update will include a new NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) battery provided by LG Energy Solution that will use the next-generation M53 cells and will launch later this year in Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East. Last time, they managed to add 25 miles in China without any battery improvements.
The Major improvements: More power with less weight
The essence of this upgrade lies in the fact that the new LG M53 cell technology offers a range of performance enhancements. The battery pack will have a slightly improved capacity at 84.7 kWh compared to that of the current battery pack, which is a 5 kWh improvement, but the weight of the battery will be reduced to 448 kg, which is an 8 kg difference. This increased energy density, coupled with reduced weight, is the direct advantage of the NMC chemistry developments, which contain more energy storage per kilogram than lithium iron phosphate (LFP) or earlier NMC variants.
This is not a technical feat only; it is a practical feat. To the drivers, it means higher efficiency, faster acceleration, and a significantly increased range.
Model 3 up to 750 km WLTP Range
The news-grabbing number would, perhaps, be the range gain, which is expected. The Model 3 Long Range RWD can range up to 750km (466 miles) under the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure) with the new battery pack. It is a 50 km (31 miles) increase over the current version, which puts the Tesla product at a better position to compete with the relatively new EV offerings that have high-range vehicles.
Similar improvements should also help the Model Y Long Range, but final range ratings have not been announced. In any case, a substantially augmented capability and considerably decreased weight are expected to make major improvements in range and fuel economy in the sedan as well as in the crossover variants.
Performance Models to Obtain Additional Power
In addition to range, there is the possibility to improve the performance with the new battery pack. Based on early news, the M3 Performance model can be loaded with more power than is possible with the M53 cell’s power output. Although Tesla is yet to verify precise numbers, the same has been the trend in the firm so far, thanks to the battery upgrades that the company has used to unleash performance with higher acceleration.
This would better position the Model 3 Performance in a crowded segment now featuring fast-charging and high output options with the Porsche Taycan, BMW i4, and N Line sub-brand, as well also produced by Hyundai.
First Strategic Markets
The launch of the new NMC battery is market-oriented in the top international markets. The upgraded versions of Model 3 and Model Y vehicles will be available in Asia-Pacific, Europe, as well as the Middle East first. This is in line with Tesla’s localization strategy, which involves local production and targeting offers to specific market demands and incentives.
Especially, European clients are felt to be the most sensitive to the WLTP values of range because once those have been raised, there is a longer mean commuting distance, and vehicle comparison testing is more thorough. With the enhanced range, the Tesla will probably succeed in keeping its robust grip in the area that is becoming more overpopulated with competitive electric vehicles.
