Lee Min-hyung joined The Korea Times in 2014 and has worked as a journalist mainly in Korea’s finance, tech and automotive industry. He specializes in content creation, breaking news and in-depth analysis currently on transportation and mobility. You can reach him via mhlee@koreatimes.co.kr.
Samsung SDI, KGM to develop next-gen EV battery packs
Choi Ick-kyu, third from left, executive vice president and head of the mobile and power battery business at Samsung SDI, poses with KGM President Kwak Jeong-hyun, second from left, after the two firms signed a partnership for the joint development of next-generation batteries for electric vehicles at the automaker’s headquarters in Seoul, Monday. Courtesy of Samsung SDI
By Lee Min-hyung
Samsung SDI has teamed up with KGM to co-develop next-generation electric vehicle (EV) battery packs featuring high energy density, extended driving range and fast charging, both firms said Tuesday.
Under the strategic partnership, they will also develop cutting-edge battery pack technologies using Samsung SDI’s 46-series cylindrical battery cells. Both sides will also collaborate on joint research to develop more sophisticated battery packs in the future.
KGM, one of Korea’s mid-tier carmakers, will apply the newly developed battery packs in its upcoming EVs.
Samsung SDI said its 46-series cylindrical batteries offer enhanced safety and durability, delivering reliable performance under a wide range of driving conditions.
The batteries feature Samsung SDI’s proprietary Silicon Carbon Nanocomposite anodes, which reduce swelling and extend battery lifespan, the company said.
It also incorporates a tabless design that reduces internal resistance and optimizes current flow, enhancing high-power output and fast-charging performance. In addition, enhanced thermal management and advanced manufacturing processes contribute to improved safety and quality reliability.
Samsung SDI and KGM said they plan to strengthen their strategic partnership by exchanging insights with a mid- to long-term focus. The two companies will also continue joint R&D efforts to develop new products.
Through the partnership, Samsung SDI highlighted the performance and quality competitiveness of its 46-series cylindrical batteries, adding that the collaboration is expected to support the company’s future growth in its battery business.
Key executives from both companies attended the partnership ceremony, including Choi Ick-kyu, executive vice president and head of the mobile and power battery business at Samsung SDI, and KGM President Kwak Jeong-hyun.
“This partnership once again proved the differentiated technological competitiveness of our 46-series cylindrical batteries in both Korean and global EV markets,” a Samsung SDI official said.
“We will continue to strengthen our technology leadership in the next-generation global battery industry.”
KGM also praised the latest partnership, saying it will serve as a key foothold in boosting the company’s competitiveness in the global auto industry.
“We will be able to proactively deal with the rapidly changing EV battery materials industry, and strengthen our capabilities in developing battery packs,” Kwak said.
“The partnership will play a key role for us to build a foundation for stable growth in the global market. We will keep advancing electrification technology development and solidify our footing for sustainable growth.”