Scientists make startling discovery after dissecting Tesla and other EV batteries side-by-side: 'We were surprised'

Tech"The findings provide both research and industry with a benchmark for large-format cell designs." by Amy BoyingtonApril 26, 2025Engineers have discovered some fascinating differences between the batteries that power the world's most popular electric vehicles. A groundbreaking study dissected batteries from Tesla and BYD to understand how they function. What researchers found: BYD batteries are more efficient.Lead study author and researcher Jonas Gorsch said that little in-depth data exists on EV batteries and their performance. So, the team compared Tesla and BYD batteries against numerous factors, including material costs, cell electrode size, and heating behaviors.The study was published in March in Cell Reports Physical Science. Researchers took apart EV batteries from both manufacturers. While the Tesla battery had a higher energy density — meaning it stores more energy in a lighter battery — the BYD battery was more volume-efficient. In other words, it can hold more energy in...