Tesla Updates Model 3 and Model Y RWD Battery Packs
Tesla has announced updates to the battery packs in its Model 3 and Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) vehicles, aiming to enhance performance and efficiency.
Key Updates:
- New Battery Pack: The current BYD Blade battery pack will be replaced with the CATL 6M pack. This change is expected to increase the battery capacity from 60.1 kWh to 62.5 kWh, offering a 6% boost. This enhancement may lead to improved range and charging performance.
- Battery Chemistry: The new pack utilizes Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry, known for its stability and reduced degradation. LFP batteries can be charged to 100% regularly, which is recommended by Tesla. However, they may have lower energy density and perform less efficiently in extreme temperatures compared to Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) batteries.
- Potential Manganese Addition: There is a possibility of introducing manganese into the new battery pack to improve energy density and performance in low temperatures, addressing some limitations of current LFP packs.
Availability:
Due to tariffs on Chinese batteries and cells, this new battery pack may not be available in North America at this time. Customers in Europe, Asia, and other markets can expect to see these batteries in their vehicles sometime next year.
These updates reflect Tesla’s commitment to enhancing vehicle performance and efficiency through continuous innovation in battery technology.