Summary
- CATL is the world’s largest battery maker and specializes in LFP batteries
- Tesla bet on the 4680 cylindrical battery in 2020, which is more energy-dense and cheaper to manufacture
- CATL’s founder Robin Zang believes Tesla’s bet on the 4680 battery will fail and criticized Musk for setting unrealistic timelines
- Tesla recently produced its 100 millionth 4680 cell and ramped up production significantly
- CATL supplies cells to Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory and has introduced a consumer-grade sodium-ion battery which is cheaper than LFP cells
Article
CATL: The World’s Largest Battery Maker
Contemporary Amperex Technology Limited, or CATL, is known as the world’s largest battery maker. The founder and chief of CATL, Robin Zang, recently criticized Tesla CEO Elon Musk for his approach to battery technology. CATL supplies battery cells to Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory and is known for specializing in lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries.
Tesla’s Bet on the 4680 Battery
In 2020, Tesla made a significant announcement regarding its development of a new battery cell format known as the 4680 battery. This battery was designed to power the Cybertruck and was used in a limited number of Model Y crossovers. The 4680 battery was touted as being more energy-dense, cost-effective, and easier to assemble than previous battery options. Recently, Tesla announced the production of its 100 millionth 4680 cell, signifying a significant achievement for the company.
CATL’s Critique of Tesla’s Cylindrical Cell
Despite Tesla’s success with the 4680 battery, CATL’s Robin Zeng believes that the cylindrical cell route is a dead end. Zang voiced his concerns to Elon Musk, stating that the 4680 battery "is going to fail and never be successful." Zeng also criticized Musk’s tendency to set unrealistic timelines for product releases, cautioning that believing Musk’s promises could lead to trouble. CATL specializes in LFP prismatic cells and recently introduced a consumer-grade sodium-ion battery as a more cost-effective option.
Tesla’s Push for Self-Driving Technology
Elon Musk has been vocal about Tesla’s pursuit of self-driving technology for the past decade, culminating in the reveal of the Cybercab robotaxi, set to go on sale in 2026. Zeng commented on Musk’s ambitious timelines, suggesting that realistic expectations are crucial to success in the industry. Despite their differences in approach, Zeng and Musk frequently discuss various topics related to battery technology and innovation.
Collaboration Between CATL and Tesla
CATL is a major supplier to Tesla’s Shanghai factory, which produces the Model 3 and Model Y EVs for both local and international markets. Tesla has also licensed CATL technology for its upcoming battery manufacturing facility in Nevada, set to become operational next year. While Tesla’s 4680 battery uses a lithium-ion chemistry with a nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) cathode, CATL specializes in the production of LFP prismatic cells and continues to explore new battery technologies to stay ahead in the market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the exchange between CATL’s Robin Zeng and Tesla’s Elon Musk highlights the different approaches to battery technology in the industry. While Tesla has achieved success with its 4680 battery, CATL believes in the potential of LFP and sodium-ion batteries as cost-effective alternatives. As the competition in the electric vehicle market continues to grow, collaboration and innovation between companies like CATL and Tesla will be crucial in driving the industry forward. Despite their differing views, both companies share a common goal of advancing battery technology to create more sustainable energy solutions for the future.
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