Tesla vs BYD – Which Battery Technology Is Better?

 

Over the past few years, electric vehicle (EV) battery technology has undergone a major revolution.

Competition in battery development has become increasingly intense, with modern EV batteries now capable of matching or even surpassing petrol-powered vehicles in certain aspects.

In the race for innovation, two automotive giants, Tesla and BYD, have taken very different approaches to EV battery development.

Tesla introduced its 4680 battery, a cylindrical cell design that prioritizes high performance and maximum energy density.

In contrast, BYD’s Blade Battery uses prismatic lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells, focusing more on safety, durability, and lower costs.

A research team from RWTH Aachen University in Germany, led by Jonas Gorsch, dismantled both batteries to analyze their structure, materials, and electrical performance.

The study involved techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and electrical resistance testing.

Tesla 4680: High Power and High Efficiency

The Tesla 4680 battery uses a cylindrical design (46 mm diameter, 80 mm height) with a “jelly roll” configuration, where electrode layers are tightly wound.

As a result, it achieves an energy density of 241 Wh/kg and 643 Wh/l, significantly higher than the BYD Blade battery (160 Wh/kg and 355 Wh/l). This allows Tesla’s battery to be lighter and more compact for the same energy capacity.

However, the battery is more expensive due to its nickel-based cathode, which costs more than the LFP materials used in the BYD Blade.

In addition, the higher internal resistance of the Tesla battery generates more heat, which can affect fast-charging capability and long-term durability.

BYD Blade: Affordable, Safe, and Long-Lasting

The BYD Blade battery features a prismatic form factor (90 mm high, 965 mm long, 14 mm thick) with a “Z-folded” configuration, offering better mechanical stability.

Although it has a lower energy density, the battery is more heat-resistant and carries a lower risk of fire thanks to the inherent stability of LFP technology.

In terms of cost, the BYD Blade battery has an advantage of around RM44/kWh cheaper than the Tesla 4680, as materials such as iron and phosphate are more readily available compared to nickel and cobalt.

This makes it a more suitable choice for budget EVs and commercial applications.

Overall, the Tesla 4680 battery is better suited for premium and high-performance vehicles, while the BYD Blade battery is more appropriate for commercial vehicles and mass-market EVs that prioritize durability and safety.

The real question is not which battery is better but which one is more suitable for a specific type of vehicle.