Description
The Molicel INR-21700-P42A is a high-power 21700 lithium-ion cell manufactured by Molicel (Taiwan), with a nominal capacity of 4200mAh and a maximum continuous discharge current of 45A (approximately 10.7C), making it one of the highest-performance high-drain cells on the market. Featuring a high-nickel ternary cathode and graphite/silicon additive anode, it delivers an energy density of approximately 230Wh/kg, combining high power output with solid energy storage capability.
The P42A‘s core advantage lies in its true 45A continuous discharge without temperature cut-off—unlike some competitors whose 45A rating depends on thermal protection, the P42A‘s 45A is a genuine everyday continuous current. In high-power tools or racing drones drawing a sustained 38–42A, the P42A remains comfortably within its operating range without unexpected shutdowns from overheat protection. Additionally, the P42A supports -40°C low-temperature discharge, delivering over 3.3Ah at -30°C under a 4.2A load, making it suitable for Nordic e-bikes, Canadian winter outdoor equipment, and high-altitude drone operations.
In terms of cycle life, the P42A achieves ≥80% capacity retention after 500 cycles at both 4.2A and 10A discharge, more than double the cycle life of the Samsung 40T. For commercial scenarios where “cycles equal cost”—shared e-bikes, drone inspection fleets—this represents a significant economic advantage.
This product is available in five configurations: flat top, button top, spot welded tabs, pre-wired leads, and protected top. The 10-pack format supports applications ranging from DIY battery pack assembly to drop-in replacements.
Key Features
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4200mAh High Capacity: 4200mAh rated capacity, 4000mAh minimum, balancing energy and power
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True 45A Continuous Discharge: 45A continuous without temperature cut-off—not a “conditional” rating dependent on thermal protection
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Outstanding Cycle Life: ≥80% capacity retention after 500 cycles (4.2A/10A discharge), far exceeding comparable competitors
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-40°C Low-Temperature Discharge: Operates in extreme cold, delivering over 3.3Ah at -30°C
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Low Internal Resistance: ≤10mΩ (AC 1kHz), minimizing voltage sag and heat generation under high current
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Five Configuration Options: Flat top, button top, spot welded tabs, pre-wired leads, and protected top for different assembly scenarios
Parameters
Applications
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Hyper EVs & Racing Cars: Formula Bharat racing vehicles, high-performance electric sports cars
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Drones & eVTOLs: Racing drones, inspection UAVs, electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft
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Power Tools: High-power cordless drills, angle grinders, saws, and professional-grade tools
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Cold-Environment Equipment: Nordic e-bikes, Canadian winter outdoor gear, high-altitude operation systems
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DIY Battery Pack Assembly: Welded tabs and pre-wired versions for spot welding and quick connections
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Backup Battery Units, Industrial Equipment, and Aerospace Applications
FAQ
Q1: What is the capacity of the P42A?
A: Nominal capacity is 4200mAh, with a minimum capacity of 4000mAh. Nominal energy is approximately 15.12Wh at a nominal voltage of 3.6V.
Q2: Is the 45A discharge a true continuous rating or does it require thermal protection?
A: The P42A‘s 45A is a true continuous discharge rating without temperature cut-off. By comparison, some competitors (e.g., Samsung 40T) require 80°C thermal protection to achieve their 45A rating, with normal sustained discharge at 35A. The P42A remains comfortably within its operating range under sustained 38–42A loads.
Q3: How is the cycle life of this cell?
A: At 4.2A and 10A discharge, capacity retention is ≥80% after 500 cycles. For daily charge-discharge devices, the P42A’s replacement cycle can be more than double that of the competing 40T.
Q4: Does the P42A support low-temperature operation?
A: Yes. The P42A has a discharge temperature range of -40°C ~ 60°C, delivering over 3.3Ah at -30°C under a 4.2A load—suitable for e-bikes, outdoor equipment, and drones in cold regions.
Q5: What are the differences between flat top, button top, welded tabs, pre-wired, and protected versions?
A: Flat top suits standard battery compartments or spot-welding assembly. Button top fits spring-loaded contacts. Welded tabs are for direct spot-welding into packs. Pre-wired leads suit quick replacement or solder-free applications. Protected versions include built-in overcharge/over-discharge/short-circuit protection, suitable for single-cell use without a BMS.
Q6: Does this cell have a protection circuit?
A: Standard, welded tab, and pre-wired versions are unprotected bare cells and must be used with a BMS or protected devices. The protected top version includes built-in protection circuitry, suitable for standalone single-cell use.
