Mercedes-Benz told SK, "Please pack the battery"

SK Innovation, Supplier for Mercedes-Benz 3rd Generation Models

Transition to Battery Cell Frame Module Method

Samsung SDI Also Developing with Advanced Technology Applications

[Asia Economy Reporter Park So-yeon] Domestic electric vehicle battery companies have made a bold move to widen the gap with competitors. They are strengthening the packaging business, a post-process, while developing battery cell performance simultaneously.

According to industry sources on the 12th, SK Innovation recently began supplying battery modules for Daimler Group's Mercedes-Benz 3rd generation electric vehicle models. The supply method, which had been limited to battery cells, has been switched to a module method that bundles battery cells together in a frame to protect them from external shocks such as heat and vibration. This change is reportedly at Daimler's request.

An official from a battery company explained, "Since battery companies know best about battery efficiency and safety, recently, automakers have strongly desired that battery companies provide more comprehensive solutions for batteries." Previously, automakers received high-capacity battery cells and assembled them directly, but now they are requesting to purchase entire battery packs that include battery management systems managing temperature and voltage, as well as cooling devices.

By receiving batteries in module form, automakers can reduce the space occupied by batteries in electric vehicle design and simplify the assembly process, thereby lowering manufacturing costs. Additionally, in case of issues such as fires during charging or driving, the responsibility can be more clearly defined.

Besides SK Innovation, other companies are actively developing various pack technologies to meet automakers' demands. Samsung SDI is developing new solutions applying various advanced technologies in module and pack design, such as a form where cells can be mounted directly without modules. The multifunctional battery pack allows flexible adjustment of the number of modules according to desired use, enabling various driving ranges. Vehicles with different driving ranges can be designed and platformized within a single pack. Samsung SDI also introduced the 'Low Height Cell,' which drastically reduces battery cell height. This product reduces the height by more than 20% compared to existing cells, allowing for increased interior vehicle space and enabling the design of various electric vehicle styles.

LG Chem has decided to transfer battery pack production, previously handled by LG Electronics' Vehicle Components Solutions (VS) division, to LG Chem, strengthening battery pack competitiveness. An LG Electronics official stated, "As part of portfolio efficiency, the two companies are integrating electric vehicle battery pack production, which they had been conducting separately, into LG Chem."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.