Post by : Bianca
Haleem
Ola Electric has categorically rejected media speculation about its supposed links to a leak of proprietary technology belonging to South Korea's LG Energy Solution. The firm described these accusations as "unfounded and misleading," emphasizing its commitment to advancing India's first locally produced advanced cylindrical battery — the 4680 Bharat Cell.
The uproar originated from a South Korean news source which reported that LG Energy Solution faced scrutiny over a potential transfer of essential pouch-type lithium-ion battery technology to Ola Electric. This investigation, led by South Korea's National Intelligence Service alongside local authorities, is said to involve a former LG employee.
Reports indicate that the compromised information relates to an obsolete pouch cell format, which Ola states it neither develops nor utilizes. Ola clarified that its 4680 Bharat Cell is based on the cutting-edge dry-electrode cylindrical technology, which is currently in commercial production.
Interestingly, these allegations surfaced at a time when the production of its Bharat Cell was gaining significant traction — a key achievement showcasing India's capability in large-format battery cell manufacturing. Ola suggested that concerns regarding competition from domestic innovation could be influencing these attempts to undermine its progress.
Presently, Ola Electric holds over 720 patent applications, with 124 already granted. Its Battery Innovation Center located in Bengaluru is staffed by more than 250 experts from top global cell technology firms. The company also operates India’s first Gigafactory, which was launched with an investment of ₹2,500 crore.
In October, Ola introduced Ola Shakti, a residential energy storage solution utilizing the 4680 Bharat Cell. This system promises to offer double the lifespan and superior efficiency compared to conventional batteries, with projected annual revenues of up to ₹1,200 crore by FY27.
Looking to the future, Ola Electric is poised to broaden its offerings in large-scale energy storage systems, with plans to enhance its total cell manufacturing capacity to 20 gigawatt-hours by the latter half of FY27, positioning India firmly in the global clean energy landscape.
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