Battery maker Molicel has introduced the INR-21700-P70X, the first cell in its PX series designed to bridge lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors. The cell offers 7,000 mAh capacity, 340 Wh/kg specific energy, 30C continuous discharge, and 900 W peak power with under 200 microsecond response time. Molicel tested the cell under a supercapacitor-like profile and reports 96% capacity retention after 1,000,000 cycles, targeting the hybrid market which reached 20% of US new vehicle sales and 24% in Europe during 2025.
Why it matters: The cell's rapid response and million-cycle durability address hybrid duty cycles that differ fundamentally from BEV deep discharge patterns, potentially influencing battery procurement strategies as hybrids capture growing market share. Molicel's UL9540A thermal runaway certification may also inform safety specifications for charging infrastructure serving hybrid fleets.