Elon Musk has never been shy about moonshot goals. When it comes to electric vehicles (EVs), achieving ever-greater range, faster charging times, and lower costs are paramount. Enter the Tesla 4680 battery cell, unveiled by Musk himself at Tesla Battery Day in September 2020. Promised to be a revolutionary leap forward, the 4680’s fate seems to be hanging in the balance, with Elon Musk himself issuing an ultimatum.
The 4680, named for its 46mm diameter and 80mm height, boasts a larger form factor compared to Tesla’s previously used 2170 cells. This, according to Elon Musk, would unlock a potential 50% increase in range and a 60% reduction in production costs. The bigger size also allows for faster charging due to reduced current density. Classic Elon Musk, these were ambitious promises.
However, the path from prototype to production has been rockier than anticipated. While Tesla has managed to ramp up 4680 production, it’s only for the high-volume Cybertruck, and even there, limitations exist. The cost reductions haven’t materialized yet, and according to some reports, the 4680 cells might be facing technical hurdles that could lead to them collapsing during use. This has seemingly put Elon Musk in a critical mood.
In May 2024, Musk reportedly laid down the gauntlet to his 4680 team. He demanded a significant cost reduction and a solution to the potential collapsing issue by year’s end. With this ticking clock, all eyes are on Elon Musk and his engineers. Can they iron out the wrinkles and deliver on the 4680’s potential, or will it become another unfulfilled promise?
The implications are significant. If the 4680 lives up to its billing, it could be a game-changer for Tesla and the entire EV industry. It would allow Tesla to produce longer-range, faster-charging EVs at a more competitive price point. This, in turn, could accelerate EV adoption worldwide, a goal that Elon Musk has long championed.
However, if the 4680 fails to deliver, it could be a setback for Tesla and raise questions about Elon Musk’s ambitious pronouncements. With so much riding on the 4680, the pressure is on for Elon Musk and his team to deliver. Only time will tell if the 4680 lives up to the hype or becomes another footnote in Elon Musk’s ever-evolving vision for the future of transportation.
Suhas is the founder and chief editor of vecharged.com, a leading US-based publication focused on the future of energy and mobility. With a deep passion for the technology that is shaping our world, his work focuses on providing clear-eyed analysis and rigorous, hands-on reviews of the latest electric vehicles, home solar systems, and portable power solutions. He founded vecharged to cut through the industry jargon and provide consumers with the data-driven, unbiased information necessary to navigate the clean energy transition with confidence. His insights have helped thousands of readers make smarter, more informed decisions about their energy use.
How Long Does It Really Take to Charge a Tesla? Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular, and Tesla is a leading automaker in this space. One of the most common questions people have about EVs is charging time. How long does it take to charge a Tesla? The answer depends on a few factors,
Electric ATVs are taking the world of kids’ outdoor toys by storm. Quieter and cleaner than their gas-powered cousins, these pint-sized powerhouses offer thrills without the fumes. But with so many options on the market, finding the right one for your child can be overwhelming. Let’s dive in! Safety First: Protecting Your Young Rider Gear
Get ready to experience the thrill and versatility of electric ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles). From quiet trail rides to high-performance adventures, electric ATVs are shaking up the world of off-roading. Ditch those noisy gas fumes and complicated maintenance – discover the clean, fun, and surprisingly powerful world of electric ATVs. Types of Electric ATVs Kids ATVs: Designed
The Ford F-150 Lightning is a powerhouse, but you can make it even better with the right additions. Here are our top 7 picks, along with their features, pros, and cons: 1. All-Weather Floor Mats 2. Bed Liner 3. Tonneau Cover 4. Bed Extender 5. Cargo Management System 6. Screen Protector 7. Phone Mount Bonus
