The Japanese automotive supplier AESC has begun mass producing its large-format 46120 cylindrical cells. These battery cells are intended to power several models from the BMW Group based on its “New Class” platform. AESC cites the all-electric BMW iX5 as the first model to use these cells.

The cells have a diameter of 46 millimeters and a height of 120 millimeters. According to AESC, this increases the usable energy per cell by nearly 30 percent compared to earlier formats. The reduced number of components in the battery pack is also expected to simplify system integration. This gives vehicle manufacturers more flexibility in integrating the battery into the vehicle.

AESC is positioning the 46120 cell format primarily for premium electric vehicles and larger SUV models. The cells use a high-nickel cathode and a silicon-doped anode. The energy density is specified at up to 310 Wh/kg.

Mass production is set to take place using state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. Production lines are reportedly equipped with more than 1,000 CCD inspection points. Additionally, each cell undergoes X-ray testing to detect foreign objects. According to the company, a magnetically mounted, high-speed transfer and positioning system enables dimensional accuracy of up to 0.01 millimeters.

Source:https://www.aesc-group.com/newsInfo?id=AESC+Starts+Mass+Production+of+46120+Large+Cylindrical+Batteries+to+Support+BMW+Group%E2%80%99s+Neue+Klasse+Platform