Tesla working on 4 next-gen batteries to power EVs, Robotaxi, Cybertruck

Tesla has been steering away from its electric vehicle (EV) roots, shifting focus towards artificial intelligence and robotics.

However, a recent report indicates that the company is still making significant strides in battery development, specifically for its next-generation vehicles and the highly anticipated Robotaxi. These advancements aim to improve performance, reduce costs, and facilitate mass deployment.

The automaker is set to unveil four new versions of its 4680-type batteries in 2026, according to a report from The Information .

These new batteries aim to address current production challenges while positioning Tesla as a leader in battery technology.

Four new battery versions coming in 2026

The 4680 battery cells, named for their 46 mm diameter and 80 mm length, are currently powering the Cybertruck and Model Y. Tesla is working on new versions of these cells, with plans to unveil them in 2026, The Information report claims .

The Robotaxi, which is set to be revealed on October 10, may feature one of these new versions. Additionally, the Cybertruck could receive an updated battery next year.

Tesla’s ambitious plans also include developing a new version of the 4680 cell using silicon carbon anodes, a material known to improve energy density, battery range, and charging speed. These next-gen cells, known as NC05, NC20, NC30, and NC50, will use a more efficient “dry” manufacturing process.

According to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, this process eliminates toxic solvents by using dry powders and binders, making it both environmentally friendly and space-efficient.

CEO Elon Musk has given engineers until the end of the year to figure out mass production for this dry cathode technology, known as the 4680D. Failure to do so may result in Tesla scrapping the 4680D plan entirely. Despite low production yields, Tesla plans to introduce the dry cathode cells in the Cybertruck next year.

Tackling production challenges

Tesla is now producing half a million 4680 cells per day, a significant improvement over previous bottlenecks in production. This suggests that Tesla has made progress in scaling up its battery production capabilities.

However, the road has not been smooth. The company has faced significant challenges in producing the next generation of 4680 cells, especially with the 4680D dry cathode process.

The 4680D production is experiencing low yields, with Tesla losing 70-80% of the cathodes during test production. In comparison, traditional battery manufacturers see a loss of only 2%. This makes mass production of the dry cathodes a tough challenge, but one that could revolutionize battery technology if solved.

Despite the setbacks, Tesla remains committed to advancing its battery technology. The NC05 cell is expected to power the Robotaxi, while the energy-dense NC20 will be used in electric SUVs like the Cybertruck. Tesla plans to install the NC30 in future sedans and trucks, while the high-performance NC50 cell will be reserved for performance vehicles.

The race to stay on top of the EV market

Tesla’s battery development is more than just an engineering project—it’s a strategic move to maintain its position as the leader in the electric vehicle (EV) market.

At present, Tesla relies heavily on batteries from partners like Japan’s Panasonic, China’s CATL, and South Korea’s LG Energy Solution. But Tesla’s long-term goal is to produce its own 4680 cells on a massive scale. By ramping up internal production, Tesla hopes to reduce costs and offer more affordable EVs.

In fact, Musk has said that mass production of 4680 cells is key to Tesla’s plan to deliver affordable electric cars. Despite the challenges, Tesla’s investment in vertical integration and cutting-edge battery technology may be its best bet to fend off competitors.

Ford, GM, and Hyundai are steadily gaining ground in the EV market, with several affordable electric cars set to launch in 2026, including Tesla’s own future budget-friendly model.

By 2026, new affordable EVs priced under $30,000, such as the next-generation Chevy Bolt EV, Kia EV3, and other models, are expected to hit the U.S. market.

The competition is intensifying, and Tesla’s share of the EV market has already declined by over 10% this year. But with innovations like the next-gen 4680 cells and improved vertical integration, Tesla aims to stay ahead in the race.