When will the Model S/X get to the 2170 type batteries?

[EddieSteadyGo]

I went for a test drive yesterday in a Model X. Tried the 100D version and was suitably impressed.

They had a Model S in the showroom which was only a few days old. It was interesting as it had the latest interior upgrades. One point in particularly which made a surprising difference was a change to the silver coloured screen bezel. Tesla have now made it more of a matt/dark grey colour. To my eyes, this one change made a significant difference in improving the impression of quality in the interior.

The question I was wondering about was the forthcoming changes to the battery type. I've read the new model 3 is using the "2170" type battery type which has better energy density as well as a few other improvements vs the existing Model S/X "18650" batteries.

Looking on-line it seems Tesla originally intended to standardise on the 2170 type but has since decided to continue using the original type batteries in the Model S/X for the time being.

I was wondering if anyone had any technical knowledge on whether a Model X in particular would benefit from using the 2170 battery types? I realise that for a technology type product, holding on for the 'next best thing' means you never buy anything. But in my case, as I don't need another car urgently, I was curious what effect this potential change in battery type might have.

[DJP31]

A non technical answer I'm afraid, but better density results in more energy storage which means more range (but I'm sure you probably knew that already). Apparently they are cheaper to produce as well, so a win double.

I think I read somewhere that the floor pan of the S/X would need modifying to accommodate the new cell packs, and that's unlikely to happen for another couple of years or so. I think there's an internal refresh of the S on the way, and supposedly an external makeover shortly thereafter so I guess would tie in with that.

[EddieSteadyGo]

DJP31 said:

I think I read somewhere that the floor pan of the S/X would need modifying to accommodate the new cell packs, and that's unlikely to happen for another couple of years or so. I think there's an internal refresh of the S on the way, and supposedly an external makeover shortly thereafter so I guess would tie in with that.

Makes sense, so you could well be right on this, particularly as it seems the focus of Tesla engineers is on the M3 ramp-up.

[gangzoom]

EddieSteadyGo said:

But in my case, as I don't need another car urgently, I was curious what effect this potential change in battery type might have.

Tesla are purely focused on 3 ramp up and production. The 3 is now out selling the S/X combined by a factor of 2:1, and as production ramps up that will just increase.

The new cells will give the S/X roughly 20% more range and since perfomance if related to pack size itll boost 0-60 times and help to differentiate the S/X from the 3.

Swapping battery packs between cars is actually easy, Musk has previously said they will support the current S/X cars with future battery upgrades. They have done that with the Roadster but it wouldn't be cheap, at least £30k+ for a pack upgrade even if they ever offer it.

If you can wait and don't need the space of a S/X I would hold out for the perfomance 3, which is probably 12 months out from RHD delivery - US orders currently have 2-3 months lead and Tesla will push perfomance 3 sales worldwide before really selling the $35k version.

0-60 in sub 3.3 seconds, 300 miles real life range and all for BMW M3 money, hard not to find excuse not ordering one

https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-model-3-performanc...