Ola Electric, India’s leading electric vehicle maker, has strongly denied allegations of receiving leaked battery technology from a former executive at South Korea’s LG Energy Solution. The company issued a statement on November 9, 2025, calling the claims baseless and timed to disrupt its push into homegrown battery production amid growing competition in the global market.
Background of the Controversy
The issue started when reports surfaced about an investigation in South Korea. LG Energy Solution accused a former researcher of sharing secret details on its pouch type ternary lithium ion battery tech with Ola Electric. This came to light through various media outlets, highlighting concerns over intellectual property in the fast growing electric vehicle sector.
Ola Electric responded quickly, stating it has no involvement or interest in the pouch cell format mentioned in the allegations. Instead, the company pointed to its own advancements, which focus on different tech paths. This denial arrives as Ola ramps up production of its new battery cells, marking a key moment for India’s EV industry.
The timing has raised eyebrows. Ola suggested the reports might stem from rivals feeling the heat from its market entry. With electric vehicles booming worldwide, such disputes underscore the high stakes in battery innovation.
Details of Ola’s 4680 Bharat Cell
Ola Electric’s flagship product in this story is the 4680 Bharat Cell. This is a cylindrical battery using advanced dry electrode technology, which the company says is fully developed in house. Unlike the pouch cells in question, this design aims for higher energy density and faster charging.
Production of the 4680 Bharat Cell began commercially in recent weeks, with Ola claiming it as India’s first large format cylindrical cell. This move supports the nation’s goal to cut reliance on imported batteries and boost local manufacturing.
Key features of the 4680 Bharat Cell include:
- Improved energy efficiency for longer vehicle range.
- Enhanced safety measures to prevent overheating.
- Faster production scalability compared to older formats.
Ola highlighted that vehicles using these cells have already received certification from India’s Automotive Research Association, paving the way for deliveries starting soon.
LG Energy Solution’s Allegations
LG Energy Solution, a major player in global battery supply, launched an internal probe after suspecting the leak. The company alleged that proprietary manufacturing steps and know how for its pouch type batteries were shared without permission. This type of battery is common in many electric vehicles due to its flexibility and cost benefits.
The accusations point to a former employee who reportedly moved to work with Ola. South Korean authorities are involved, treating it as a potential breach of industrial secrets. LG has not named Ola directly in all statements, but media reports linked the two based on the investigation details.
This is not the first time tech leaks have hit the headlines in the battery world. Similar cases have involved companies in China and the US, showing how fiercely guarded these innovations are.
Ola’s Response and Market Impact
In its statement, Ola Electric dismissed the claims as misleading and ill timed. The company argued that foreign competitors fear losing ground to Indian innovation, especially as Ola secures big customers and expands its gigafactory operations.
Ola’s founder, Bhavish Aggarwal, has been vocal about building self reliant tech in India. Recent events include the launch of new electric scooters powered by these cells, which promise better performance and lower costs.
The controversy could affect investor confidence. Ola’s stock has seen fluctuations, but the company reported strong sales in the September 2025 quarter, with net sales at 690 crore rupees despite a year over year dip.
To understand the broader market context, here’s a quick comparison of key battery technologies:
| Technology Type | Key Player | Main Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pouch Type Lithium Ion | LG Energy Solution | Flexible design, cost effective | Prone to swelling |
| Cylindrical Dry Electrode | Ola Electric (4680 Bharat Cell) | High density, safer | Higher initial production costs |
| Prismatic Cells | Various (e.g., CATL) | Compact for packs | Less flexible shaping |
This table shows how Ola’s approach differs, supporting its denial of using leaked tech.
Implications for India South Korea Ties
The dispute has sparked talks about international relations in tech. India and South Korea have strong economic links, with investments flowing both ways in autos and electronics. A prolonged issue could strain these ties, especially as both nations push for EV dominance.
Experts note that such allegations often lead to legal battles or settlements. For Ola, proving its tech is original could strengthen its position in global markets. Meanwhile, LG might use this to protect its patents more aggressively.
In recent months, India has announced incentives for local battery makers, aligning with Ola’s strategy. This fits into the larger trend of countries like the US and EU investing billions in domestic EV supply chains to reduce dependence on Asia.
Future Outlook for Ola Electric
Looking ahead, Ola Electric plans to integrate the 4680 Bharat Cell into more products, including its popular S1 scooter line. The company aims to cut vehicle prices by up to 30 percent through in house batteries, making EVs more accessible in India.
Challenges remain, such as supply chain issues and competition from giants like Tesla and BYD. But Ola’s focus on innovation could help it capture a bigger share of the growing market, projected to reach 10 million EV units in India by 2030.
As this story develops, it highlights the intense rivalry in clean energy tech. Readers, what do you think about these allegations? Share your views in the comments and spread the word if you found this insightful.
