LG Energy Solution (LGES) has announced a major supply agreement with U.S.-based electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Rivian to deliver 4695 cylindrical batteries, set for production at LGES’s new Arizona facility.
The batteries will power Rivian’s forthcoming R2 electric vehicles, with the agreement covering a total energy capacity of 67 GWh over the next five years.
LGES, a spinoff from LG Chem specializing in battery production, has grown rapidly through partnerships with global automakers, and its latest agreement with Rivian follows several strategic investments influenced by the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, which incentivizes U.S.-produced BEV components. LGES has previously partnered with automakers like Hyundai, Stellantis, Ford, and Toyota.
The 4695 cells — with a diameter of 46mm and a height of 95mm — mark an upgrade from the 4680 format and are designed to deliver long range and high safety, offering over six times the capacity of the popular 2170 cylindrical cells.
The batteries for Rivian will initially be produced at LGES’s Arizona plant, with deliveries expected to Rivian’s Illinois assembly facility to support North American market demand.
Rivian’s R2 model, anticipated for release in early 2026, has already garnered over 100,000 pre-orders. Production is scheduled to begin at Rivian’s Illinois plant, with possible future expansion to its upcoming Georgia site.
