Tesla and almost all other EV producers are constantly pushing the limits to reduce the wh/kg in every battery and battery pack. This is ultimately one of the defining factors when it comes to EV adoption and competitiveness to ICE vehicles. So, how much do Tesla batteries weigh?
On an individual basis, the 18650 battery cell weighs 47 grams, the 2170 battery cell weighs 68 grams and the 4680 battery cell weighs 355 grams. On a per-pack basis, the Tesla Model X battery weighs 1 183 lbs, the Model S 1 200 lbs, the Model Y 1 168 lbs, and the Model 3 weighs 1 060 lbs.
Of course, there are many variations to the above answer. That is why I’ve broken it all down for you in the article below. Check it out!
Tesla Battery Weights Per Model
Tesla batteries have thousands of cells that are packed into bricks (also known as models) and create a heavy battery. Every Tesla model has a unique battery weight since they have different range capacities, storage requirements, and more.
It’s important to keep in mind that the larger batteries provide more mileage (in most cases). However, the bigger models (such as the Model X) weigh more because they require more power. All of the cells and modules in the battery system increase the battery’s weight to be more than 10 times heavier than a gas-powered vehicle.
Unlike most gas-powered car batteries, you wouldn’t go to a local automotive store and find a Tesla battery on the shelf. These batteries are comprised of several cells and other components that you can get from a Tesla dealer, though some EV mechanics keep them in their shops. You can also build a Tesla battery, but it’s not recommended unless you’re a licensed professional.
In the table below, I’ll dive into the details of how much each Tesla model battery pack weighs.
| Tesla Model | Battery Weight |
| Model X | 1,183 pounds |
| Model Y | 1,168 pounds |
| Model S | 1,200 pounds |
| Model 3 | 1,060 pounds |
(Sources: ENRG & Weight of Stuff)
Note: These weights are based on current Tesla batteries. Keep in mind that the company occasionally changes the battery sizes for newer models, so future Tesla models might have heavier or lighter batteries.
Individual Tesla Battery Cell Weights
There are three different battery cells found in Tesla EVs. Let’s break them down below.
- The 18650 battery cell weighs 47 grams. These cells are the smallest available, but they pack quite a punch. Tesla stuffs thousands of these cells into battery modules that make up the whole battery. If one cell goes bad, you can replace it with another. However, it’s best to replace a whole module if too many of the cells are depleted.
- The 2170 battery cell weighs 68 grams, making it the second heaviest battery cell produced for Tesla vehicles. The lightweight design was reduced by about 15%, making it more efficient and less space-consuming. Furthermore, these cells store about 1,300 mAh more than the aforementioned 18650 battery cells.
- Finally, the 4680 battery cell weighs 355 grams. It’s much heavier than the previous cells, but it holds a longer charge and lasts much longer. It also doesn’t need to be replaced as often as the 2170 or the 18650 battery cells. This battery cell is wide and compact, allowing Tesla to fit more of them in each battery module.
Note: The module housing, cooling tubes, and other components add several pounds to the battery.
Tesla Battery Module Weights
Each Tesla battery has between four to 16 modules. These modules weigh between 50 to 60 pounds each. Each module has hundreds to thousands of cells. These modules connect to each other. Every module has a cooling tube going around it to keep the cells at a safe temperature to prevent numerous electrical issues.
The modules can be disconnected and replaced by a professional. Keep in mind that some modules weigh slightly more than others since each cell has a different weight. For example, a 2710 Tesla battery module weighs closer to 60 pounds compared to the 18650 battery module which, weighs around 55 pounds.
Unfortunately, there’s currently no way to reduce your Tesla battery’s module weight. You’d have to remove cells, which would render the module useless. Furthermore, you can’t change the protective case, cooling tubes, and other components. These modifications would reduce the battery’s weight, but they would cause irreparable damage.
Another thing to keep in mind is that you can upgrade the battery, but you’d have to change all of the modules. Upgrading the battery would increase or decrease the system’s weight. This modification is currently the only way to alter a Tesla’s overall electrical setup.
I also wrote a similar article where I compared how many batteries cells are in every Tesla. I also designed a nice infographic to show exactly how the new Model Y pack with the 4680 battery from Tesla is laid out. Check it out!
2170 Tesla Batteries Weight Variations
Tesla’s 2170 batteries weigh between 60 to 68 grams. These various weights come from recent upgrades, so it’s expected that they could weigh more or less down the road. Unfortunately, the 18650 cells can’t be improved beyond their current state. They were designed for earlier models of EVs, but they aren’t as energy-efficient as the newer models.
It’s important to mention that the upgraded 2170 batteries have a higher capacity. For example, the original models have 3,000 mAh, while the newest models have 4,800 mAh. The small gram increase adds several pounds to each module, but it doesn’t have a negative impact since these batteries improve the battery’s performance.
If you intend to replace your Tesla’s 2170 cells, modules, and battery systems, always ask about the weight and mAh. You wouldn’t want to end up with an older model or something that changes your vehicle’s weight too much.
Here’s what you should know about the fluctuating weight of 2170 Tesla batteries:
- Tesla can shorten the dimensions to reduce the battery’s weight without affecting the capacity too much.
- Minor material alterations (such as adding more nickel) can lighten the battery cells.
- The 2170 battery is also known as the 21700 battery to allow for weight changes and other improvements (these batteries differ from the 20700 batteries).
Tesla Battery Wh/Kg Measurements
A battery’s energy density is calculated by dividing the watt-hours by kilograms. The energy density determines how much energy the battery can hold and emit. A higher Wh/Kg measurement is typically associated with higher quality batteries. Most Tesla batteries range between 212 to 296 Wh/Kg, making them some of the most impressive batteries available.
It’s important to know your vehicle battery’s energy density to know how far you can go. For example, a Tesla with 18650 cells is up to 54 Wh/Kg less than a 2710 battery and up to 84 Wh/Kg less than the 4680 battery.
Below, I’ll provide details to show each of the Tesla battery cells Wh/Kg.
| Battery Type | Wh/Kg |
| 18650 | 212 |
| 2170 | 262 to 276 |
| 4680 | 272 to 296 |
Keep in mind that your Tesla doesn’t necessarily need a better Wh/Kg since they all have excellent ratings. The economy-class Tesla Model 3 comes with a 2170 battery, which is quite an impressive setup for the price. You can upgrade the battery, but it’ll increase the car’s weight and influence the control and handling.
Interestingly enough, the Wh/Kg impacts your battery’s weight. While most people invest in new battery cells, modules, and systems for their performance upgrades, it’s crucial to know every area that a new battery affects. Below, I’ll talk about whether or not your battery’s charge changes the weight.
Why Tesla Batteries Weigh Less When They’re Empty
People often wonder if Tesla batteries weigh more when they’re fully charged. After all, this could lead some drivers to partially charge their vehicle for around-town driving. A reduced overall weight consumes less energy. While the battery weighs a bit less when it isn’t charged, the difference is negligible.
The reason a Tesla battery weighs a few micrograms less when it’s empty is that there’s less energy in the battery. Energy has a little bit of weight. However, the electron count stays the same, whether or not the battery is charged.
As Albert Einstein put it, energy is equal to mass multiplied by the speed of light squared. The small energy loss reduces the mass of the cells by an incredibly small amount. Nevertheless, this mass reduction lowers the battery’s weight.
It’s important to remember that the weight loss is so small (micrograms) that it doesn’t impact the vehicle’s performance. You also won’t feel it when you’re driving the Tesla. That being said, some Tesla owners don’t fully charge their batteries because completely charging the battery can hinder the Li-ion’s performance and maximum capacity.
For the best results, only charge your Tesla’s battery to about 90%.
How Weight Affects a Tesla Battery’s Performance
You might be worried that your Tesla will perform worse if you upgrade to a heavier set of cells. After all, most gas-powered vehicles are worse off when they’re heavier with smaller engines. There’s no denying that the battery’s weight influences the way you drive your Tesla. However, it might not be what you think.
Here’s a list of reasons the battery’s weight impacts your Tesla:
- Tesla’s stronger batteries are heavier. The increased weight improves the battery system’s range and performance. While the batteries undoubtedly increase the vehicle’s overall weight, they also drastically improve its capacity.
- If you add weight to the vehicle, your Tesla battery won’t last as long. This includes adding heavy modifications, towing a vehicle behind the car or SUV, and storing a lot of heavy items in the cab. Keep in mind that battery protection packs and other related items can drastically increase the battery’s weight, which shortens its range.
- Software updates can influence the battery performance without changing the weight of cells, battery packs, and so on. People often think the only way to improve a battery’s performance is through hardware modifications. However, Tesla offers unique software upgrades that reduce the energy consumption of various tasks.
Here’s What Affects a Tesla Battery’s Weight
Tesla batteries have numerous components that make them extremely heavy. Let’s dive into all of the components below.
- Every set of cells sits in a case. Tesla battery case weighs around 275 pounds. Having multiple cases makes up to ⅕ of the battery’s overall weight. Without these cases, the loose cells wouldn’t power anything in the vehicle.
- Cooling tubes in a Tesla’s battery prevent the battery from getting too hot. Without a series of cooling tubes, the cells would malfunction. However, these metal tubes add quite a bit of weight to the system.
- Every Tesla battery has thousands of cells. While each cell is very lightweight, they add up to thousands of pounds. The cells are the bulk of the battery system. Each set of cells goes into a battery case (as mentioned above).
- The mounting bracket holds the battery pack to the underside of the vehicle. These brackets are extremely durable, but this means that they add a bit of weight to the vehicle. Tesla currently doesn’t list the weight of these mounting brackets for any of their models, but it’s worth mentioning that they add several pounds.
How Tesla Reduces Future Battery Weights
While we’ve recorded the most recent battery weights, Tesla is committed to lowering these numbers. Reduced battery weights can shrink how much space they consume while letting the car go further.
Here’s how the company intends to reduce its battery weights:
- Tesla has reduced some of the battery weights by designing new cells made with nickel. The cells make up most of the weight, so reducing their weight by a few grams goes a long way.
- The current modules are designed to hold the cells. Each module weighs almost as much as a regular car battery. Making the modules with stronger, thinner materials won’t sacrifice or hinder the module’s structural integrity.
- Tesla has reduced some of its batteries by thinning the cooling tubes. Every Tesla battery has cooling tubes that prevent the battery from overheating.
- Another way Tesla is reducing the weight of its batteries is by lowering the car’s total weight. When the car weighs less, the battery doesn’t need to be as powerful. This means lighter batteries can be used.
These are just a few of the ways Tesla has already reduced its battery weights. New improvements could be made down the line.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Weigh a Tesla Battery?
Why Are Tesla Batteries So Heavy?
