Hyundai's purchase agreement with Samsung SDI runs from 2026 to 2032, according to Samsung SDI. The company will produce the battery cells for Hyundai's EVs in Europe in Hungary from 2026. They will therefore also be destined for Hyundai's European vehicle plant. In Nosovice, Czech Republic, Hyundai manufactures the Kona Electric using LG Energy Solution's battery cells, while Hyundai subsidiary Kia operates its European plant in Zilina, Slovakia.
The cells now ordered from Samsung SDI will be used in "next generation" EVs. While there are no details about the vehicles yet, Samsung SDI is being unusually open about the battery cells themselves.
The order is for sixth generation (P6) prismatic battery cells with NCA (Nickel, Cobalt, Aluminum) cathode chemistry, with 91 percent nickel. The battery cells also use a silicon-based anode instead of graphite-based materials.
Previously, Hyundai relied primarily on pouch cells. The thin foil pouches require less space in the battery pack than solid casings of round or prismatic cells. However, the solid casings not only offer additional safety, but also make it possible - depending on the design of the casing - to place a structural load on the cell itself. This enables cell-to-pack concepts.
“We have taken the first step forward with Hyundai Motor Company, which is a leader in the global automotive industry,” said Yoon-ho Choi, president and CEO of Samsung SDI. “The company will do its utmost to help Hyundai Motor strengthen its global leadership by expanding its long-term partnership with the automaker and providing customers with unrivalled technologies and the highest quality.”
Source: Samsung SDI
