Samsung SDI is expected to expand its Tianjin plant in China by the end of this year to increase production of cylindrical batteries, business sources said on March 10.
Although specific amount of investment is not known yet, industries are estimating that it will be around 300 billion won ($272 million).
Cylindrical batteries are in a shortage of supply worldwide as the electric bicycle market, represented by e-mobility, expands, including power tools.
There are two types of cylindrical batteries produced by Samsung SDI, 18650 (18mm in diameter × 65mm in height) and 21700 (21mm in diameter × 70mm in height), which are the same size as that of Tesla Model, S Model X and Model 3, respectively.
A Samsung SDI official said, "We are currently considering expanding our plant to meet global demands for cylindrical batteries such as electric tools and electric bicycles. We have not yet discussed about supplying batteries for Tesla's electric vehicles.
Samsung SDI is operating No. 1, 2 plants that produce cylindrical batteries and smartphone pouch batteries in Tianjin, China.
