Encyclopedia Article

Cell Formats and Pack Architecture

Cells become useful systems only after they are packaged into modules and protected by electronics.

Cell Formats and Pack Architecture diagram

Illustration: Cells become useful systems only after they are packaged into modules and protected by electronics.

Cylindrical cells

Cylindrical cells are mechanically robust and highly standardized. They are common in laptops, tools, e-bikes, and many EV architectures.

Prismatic and pouch cells

Prismatic cells package energy in a rigid rectangular can. Pouch cells use flexible laminated packaging, offering efficient use of space but requiring careful compression.

From cells to packs

Packs connect cells in series and parallel to reach the desired voltage, capacity, power, and redundancy. Cooling, fusing, sensors, and BMS electronics become part of the battery system.