California, United States — Tesla has plans to use cheaper, iron-based batteries in electric semi-light trucks, the OEM announced last Thursday via its Master Plan Part 3 paper.
Tesla currently uses nickel-based batteries in its EVs. Lithium iron phosphate batteries are generally cheaper than nickel and cobalt-based lithium-ion batteries, which analysts expect will help the OEM cut down on manufacturing costs while simultaneously addressing supply issues related to nickel and cobalt.
Lithium iron phosphate batteries are also considered less likely to catch fire compared to their nickel and cobalt-based counterparts. They are, however, larger, heavier and hold less energy than nickel-based batteries.
The proposed lithium iron phosphate batteries, intended for use in “short range” heavy electric trucks Tesla calls the “Semi Light,” will hold a capacity of 53 kWh. The Model Y and Model 3 batteries tout a 75 kWh capacity.
Tesla intends to use lithium iron phosphate batteries in the Model Y and Model 3 eventually, though it has not provided a timeline.
CEO Elon Musk is reportedly all for lithium iron phosphate battery technology, and Reuters said he was quoted to say “the vast majority of heavy lifting for electrification will be iron-based cells” this past March.
In March, Tesla also announced a promise to halve assembly costs for future generations of its cars, but did not reveal any details on when an affordable Tesla EV would hit the market.
