The automotive industry is rapidly transforming as manufacturers explore innovative ways to enhance electric vehicle (EV) performance and sustainability. BMW, one of the leading players in this sector, has recently unveiled its advanced sixth-generation eDrive technology, presenting a significant leap in electric drivetrain design. This new system, featuring large cylindrical battery cells for the first time, reflects BMW's commitment to innovating greener transportation solutions.

At the heart of this cutting-edge technology is the combination of a groundbreaking 800V high-voltage platform and the large cylindrical batteries, which boasts a standard diameter of 46mm and heights of 95mm and 120mm. The revolutionary “cell to pack” design integrates the cells directly into the battery pack without the need for modules, significantly optimizing space and enhancing performance. An additional innovation is the “pack to open body” technology, which merges the battery pack with the vehicle’s structural framework. This integration results in a thinner, lighter battery pack with an increased energy density, leading to improvements in performance. According to BMW, this new battery pack achieves a 20% increase in energy density, a 30% increase in range, and a 30% faster charging speed, facilitating a remarkable boost of 300 kilometers of range with just 10 minutes of charging on the 800V platform.

To bring this technology into mass production, BMW is collaborating with leading suppliers such as Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. (CATL) and Eve Energy. The rollout is planned first for the upcoming new generation of BMW models and for domestically produced models starting in 2026, with a gradual expansion into other models, including future electric M cars. This strategic collaboration highlights BMW's proactive approach to integrating advanced battery technology in its EV lineup, positioning itself as a formidable player in the global EV market.

Various battery types exist in the market, categorized mainly into prismatic, pouch, and cylindrical shapes. Among them, cylindrical batteries can be further divided into small cylindrical and large cylindrical categories. Currently, prismatic batteries dominate the market, especially given that Chinese companies have established a significant competitive advantage in this realm, with manufacturers like CATL predominantly offering prismatic batteries. However, a shift is noticeable as several automotive manufacturers signal the adoption of large cylindrical batteries. Notable battery manufacturers including CATL, Eve Energy, Panasonic, and LG Energy are accelerating their investments in large cylindrical battery technology.

One of the key advantages of large cylindrical batteries over prismatic ones is their superior energy density and safety features, alongside potential cost reductions in manufacturing. Despite the high technical barriers previously associated with cylindrical battery production, including issues related to electrode compression and battery extension, advancements in technology have led to increased feasibility for mass production. Over the past couple of years, large cylindrical batteries have gained traction as their performance limitations have been addressed, making them a viable option for electric vehicles.

In this rapidly evolving landscape, Tesla has emerged as a pioneer in large cylindrical battery technology. In September 2020, Tesla introduced its “4680” large cylindrical battery, which measures 46mm in diameter and 80mm in length. This battery can potentially increase the energy density by a factor of five and improve vehicle range by up to 16%. Tesla’s exploration into cylindrical batteries dates back to 2008 when it first integrated Panasonic's 18650 small cylindrical batteries into its vehicles, followed by the development of the larger 21700 battery in partnership with Panasonic.

According to a research report released by Dongguan Securities, large cylindrical batteries are becoming a crucial technology pathway for electric vehicles, particularly for mid to high-end models and energy storage solutions. The industrialization of large cylindrical batteries is poised to begin, with expectations for significant market growth. Following Tesla's introduction of the 4680 battery scheme, key battery manufacturers worldwide have enthusiastically pursued opportunities in large cylindrical battery development. In light of several years of technological advancement, both domestic and international enterprises have stocked their knowledge base and initiated commercial strategies for large cylindrical batteries. Huatai Securities predicts that by 2027, the global installed capacity of large cylindrical batteries could reach 429 GWh, corresponding to a market scale of approximately 214.48 billion yuan, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 110.7% from 2023 to 2027.

In an interview, Yu Qingjiao, Secretary-General of the New Battery Technology Innovation Alliance in Zhongguancun, emphasized that the primary developmental goal of power batteries is to achieve low cost, high safety, and high energy density. Typically, enhancing these capabilities can be accomplished through innovations in battery structure and materials. It is projected that large cylindrical batteries will emerge as one of the mainstream directions in power batteries. Nonetheless, various battery forms—including cylindrical, prismatic, and pouch—will continue to find their specific markets and applications.