Tesla is still a little secretive as to the exact options the new Model 3 will offer in terms of battery power. Previously we were advised that the base version will have a battery pack smaller than 60 kWh but capable of more than 215 miles of range. Now, confirmations have also been and that state there is a 30% difference in energy density between that of the Model S and the new Model 3.
Tesla CTO, JB Straubel, said in his latest presentation “One of the not very intuitive, maybe not common sense pieces of this is that as you increase the energy density of the battery, you are also reducing the cost. Because in really high volume, things tend to cost about the same as they weigh. You can essentially look at the raw materials that go into the battery and how much those weigh – and that tends to be what defines the cost.”
So basically, in order to reduce the cost, fewer materials need to be used. Straubel also explained during the presentation that battery breakthroughs are not needed as improvements are continually being made anyway. Each year it’s estimated that batteries have around a 5% improvement figure, and this is being conservative.
Greater energy density can also be seen in both the Tesla Powerwall 2 and Powerpack 2 battery packs. The latter weighs 1622 kg, which is almost 100 kg less than its predecessor, and it packs out a massive 210 kWh power output, which is more than double the first model. So, it just goes to show that with a little time, money, and a few adaptations, improvements can be made and will continue to do so.
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