The Rise of the 46100 Format
In a major development for the electric vehicle landscape, LG Energy Solution has been tapped to supply a brand-new battery format to Mercedes-Benz. According to industry reports, the two companies are coordinating on the 46100 cylindrical cell, a specialized battery measuring 46 millimeters in diameter and 100 millimeters in height. This specific form factor represents a fresh iteration in the expanding 46-series family, which is rapidly becoming the gold standard for high-performance electric mobility.
While the 4680 format has gained fame through its association with Tesla, LG Energy Solution’s move to produce the 100mm-tall variant highlights a drive for greater energy density and optimized space utilization within vehicle chassis. By diversifying its cylindrical portfolio, LGES aims to provide automakers with precise dimensions tailored to next-generation EV platforms, balancing weight, range, and thermal efficiency.
Production Timelines and Manufacturing Strategy
The roadmap for this technology is aggressive. LG Energy Solution is expected to begin the installation of specialized production lines next year. Reports indicate that the primary manufacturing hub for these cells will be the company’s facility in Wrocław, Poland. To ensure a seamless launch, LGES is reportedly utilizing its plant in Ochang to prototype the 46100 cells, refining the manufacturing process before scaling for mass production in Europe.
Industry analysts suggest that the deal, slated to commence in 2028, will require not just cell manufacturing but also advanced module assembly. While neither company has officially confirmed the logistics of the assembly phase, the integration of these modules is expected to be a critical component of the supply agreement, ensuring that Mercedes-Benz can integrate these power units directly into its future EV architectures.
Why it Matters
- Strategic Supply Diversification: Mercedes-Benz continues to broaden its battery supply network, balancing partnerships with LGES alongside agreements with Samsung SDI, CATL, and others to protect its supply chain from regional disruptions.
- Evolution of the 46-Series: The transition from the more common 4680 cell to the 46100 size illustrates a shift toward taller, more energy-dense cells that can be packed more effectively into modern skateboard platforms.
- Manufacturing Scaling: By leveraging its Polish facility, LGES is positioning itself as a localized supplier for European manufacturers, reducing the carbon footprint and logistical costs associated with long-distance battery shipping.
This partnership underscores the deepening relationship between Stuttgart and the South Korean battery giant, as both companies work toward the ambitious electrification targets set for the close of the decade. By standardizing around this new 46-series format, Mercedes-Benz is likely aiming to maximize the range-to-weight ratio of its upcoming vehicle fleet, keeping it competitive in an increasingly crowded global EV market.
