NEO Battery Materials Ltd. has launched a high energy density 6.3Ah 21700-format cylindrical cell targeting the drone and robotics sectors, alongside securing the Grand Prize in the Innovation category at the K-Battery Show in South Korea.

The newly introduced cylindrical cell achieves an energy density of 307 Wh/kg with a maximum continuous discharge rate of 2C and a targeted cycle life of 1,000 cycles based on standard charging and discharging protocols. As the 21700 format serves as a standardized form factor across various industries, the cells can be adopted as a direct replacement in systems to extend operational runtime and endurance. NEO aims to supply the cells directly into drone, robotics, defense, and e-mobility applications, starting with local and Asia-Pacific markets.

At its Cell Assembly Expansion Factory in South Korea, the company has procured pre-commercial manufacturing equipment for tabless-architecture 21700 cylindrical cells, with commissioning scheduled by the end of the year. The targeted pre-commercial capacity is approximately 360,000 cells annually on a continuous production basis, translating into 6 to 8 MWh of annual output depending on energy- or power-focused battery designs.

In parallel with direct product sales, NEO is opening its 21700 manufacturing capacity for foundry services and custom cell development. This offering provides an alternative, secure supply of U.S. Department of Defense NDAA-compliant, non-Chinese cylindrical cells for allied defense and drone manufacturers navigating supply constraints.

“NEO's product innovation is driven by a team carrying more than 100 years of combined experience from the world's largest lithium-ion battery manufacturers,” stated Mr. Spencer Huh, CEO & President of NEO. “Prior to this launch, our engineers have commercialized various renditions of the 18650 and 21700 cylindricals at the gigafactory scale, in which many products are being mass-produced and utilized in active systems today. As we possess the necessary technical and manufacturing capabilities internally, NEO will actively move the cylindrical offering from pilot to commercial-scale production along with its pouch-format portfolio.”

— Mr. Spencer Huh, CEO & President of NEO

The company scheduled supply delivery of high-performance battery cells and packs for the Republic of Korea Army program from July through October 2026, alongside securing multiple commercial purchase orders and supply intent agreements for its silicon-enhanced battery products.

Read the full announcement: NEO Battery Launches High Energy Density 21700 Cylindrical Cell & Awarded Grand Prize at K-Battery Show