Lishen 2170LA Weight v power trade off in pack design - how to pick the right balance.
Discover the Lishen 2170LA cell for UAV applications, optimising weight and power for enhanced drone performance and endurance.
Value Propositions
Cylindrical 21700 form factor for efficient design.
Nominal capacity of 14.4 Wh and 4.0 Ah for reliable performance.
Top-quartile volumetric power density of 6,370 W/l for high power demands.
Gravimetric energy density of 215 Wh/kg, ideal for lightweight applications.
Maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, supporting demanding UAV operations.

About the Cell
The Lishen 2170LA cell features a cylindrical 21700 form factor, providing a nominal capacity of 14.4 Wh and 4.0 Ah. With a volumetric energy density of 566 Wh/l, it ranks among the highest in the database, surpassing the median of 541.67 Wh/l by +4%. Its gravimetric energy density of 215 Wh/kg is around the median, ensuring a balance between weight and energy storage. The cell also boasts a volumetric power density of 6,370 W/l, which is in the top-quartile compared to the median of 2,029 W/l, making it suitable for high-demand applications. Additionally, the gravimetric power density of 2,418 W/kg is significantly above the median of 750 W/kg, providing excellent performance for UAVs. This combination of high energy and power densities makes the Lishen 2170LA an ideal choice for drone battery design.
Application Challenges
In the context of EVTOL and the weight versus power trade-off in pack design, selecting the right battery cell is crucial. UAVs require batteries that not only provide sufficient energy for extended flight times but also maintain a lightweight profile to enhance overall performance. The challenge lies in balancing these two factors effectively. A battery that is too heavy can reduce flight efficiency, while one that does not deliver enough power can compromise mission success. The Lishen 2170LA addresses these challenges with its high energy density and power capabilities, ensuring that UAVs can achieve optimal performance without unnecessary weight.
Why this Cell
The Lishen 2170LA cell is particularly well-suited for UAV applications due to its impressive specifications. With a maximum continuous discharge of 45 A, it supports high current demands, essential for maintaining UAV performance during critical phases of flight. The cell's volumetric energy density of 566 Wh/l is significantly above the median, allowing for more energy storage in a compact form. This is vital for long endurance drone batteries, where every gram counts. Furthermore, the gravimetric power density of 2,418 W/kg ensures that the cell can deliver power efficiently, making it a top choice for UAV battery pack design. This combination of features allows for effective UAV battery optimisation, ensuring that operators can maximise flight time and mission success.
How Model-Based Design Helps
Simulation and model-based design play a crucial role in optimising battery selection for UAV applications. By simulating load profiles, thermal behaviour, and voltage response, engineers can accurately predict how the Lishen 2170LA cell will perform under various conditions. This approach allows for the modelling of heat generation and energy usage, enabling the identification of the most suitable battery for specific mission profiles. For instance, understanding the thermal rise during high discharge scenarios can prevent overheating and ensure safe operation. Additionally, simulations can help in predicting the state of charge (SoC) accurately, which is essential for mission planning and reliability. By leveraging these advanced modelling techniques, UAV manufacturers can make informed decisions, reducing the risk of costly trial-and-error testing and enhancing overall operational efficiency.


