Ola Electric Dismisses Allegations of Involvement in LG Energy Leak Investigation

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Ola Electric has categorically rejected claims made by media outlets suggesting that it was involved in a leak concerning LG Energy Solution’s proprietary pouch cell technology from South Korea. The company labeled these accusations as “baseless and misleading,” emphasizing its commitment to advancing India’s first domestic cylindrical battery, the 4680 Bharat Cell.

The uproar started after a South Korean publication alleged that LG Energy Solution faced scrutiny for purportedly transferring crucial pouch-type lithium-ion battery technology to Ola Electric. This investigation, conducted by South Korea’s National Intelligence Service alongside the Seoul police, reportedly centers on a former researcher from LG.

According to the reports, the compromised information pertains to an earlier pouch cell model, which Ola states it does not research or employ. The company asserted that its 4680 Bharat Cell employs dry-electrode cylindrical technology, an innovative and efficient design that is already in production.

Ola highlighted that these reports emerged coinciding with the ramp-up of its Bharat Cell production, marking a significant achievement for India in developing its own large-format battery. The firm speculated that apprehensions over competition from homegrown technologies may be prompting attempts to undermine its success.

At present, Ola Electric holds 720 patents, with 124 already granted. Its Battery Innovation Center, located in Bengaluru, houses more than 250 experts from top global battery technology companies. Additionally, the company has established India's inaugural Gigafactory with an investment of ₹2,500 crore.

Last October, Ola introduced Ola Shakti, a home energy storage solution powered by the 4680 Bharat Cell. This system offers double the lifespan and improved efficiency when compared to conventional batteries and is projected to generate up to ₹1,200 crore in annual revenue by FY27.

Looking toward the future, Ola Electric aims to enhance its energy storage systems on a large scale while increasing its total manufacturing capacity to 20 gigawatt-hours by the latter half of FY27, firmly placing India on the global clean energy stage.