Mercedes EQ 46 round cell: LG deal for 107 GWh paves the way for S-Class EQ from 2028

According to Electrive, Mercedes-Benz and LG Energy Solution have signed a groundbreaking battery supply agreement to the total value of 107 GWh. 32 GWh are earmarked for Europe from August 2028 to December 2035, and 75 GWh for the US from July 2029 to December 2037.

Cylindrical battery cells from the "46 series"

Technically, these are cylindrical battery cells from the "46 series" with a diameter of approximately 46 millimeters. According to Electrive, the order is "the largest single order to date for LG Energy for its cylindrical cells from the 46 series". Production of these cells will be ramped up at the new plant in Arizona, among other locations, starting in 2026.

Contract volume of over 150 GWh of cylindrical battery cells

A supply contract for 50.5 GWh had already been agreed with LGES in October 2024, also presumably for 46 cells and starting in 2028. Altogether, the contract volume amounts to over 150 GWh of cylindrical battery cells – an indication of the direction future Mercedes EV models will take.

MB.EA-L platform

According to Electrive, the decision in favor of the 46 round cell could also be based on the planned MB.EA-L platform, which does not feature a modular battery level ("module-less battery") and is therefore ideal for integrating round cells.

Mercedes' high technology and quality standards

In the competition for the contract, LGES prevailed over established Chinese suppliers such as CATL and Farasis – a clear sign of Mercedes' technology and quality standards. Another indicator of the significance of the deal is the estimated cost: according to Elecrive, the total volume amounts to around 15 trillion won – approximately $10.8 billion.

Foundation for its upcoming S-Class EQ

With the LG deal, Mercedes-Benz is laying a crucial foundation for its upcoming S-Class EQ and other large EV models on the MB.EA-L platform. The targeted focus on the 46 round cell and the early securing of large battery volumes will support long-term production and delivery planning.