The high density battery is designed to provide 500 kilometers (310 miles) of range or 80 percent of capacity in the time it takes for a quick roadside coffee break. For reference, that's more than what the average fully-charged Tesla Model S currently offers.

Instead of fitting cars with more battery cells, which in turn adds weight, Samsung hopes that by delivering smartphone-like fast charging, consumers won't suffer from range anxiety and will be able to drive longer distances without lengthy top-ups.

That wasn't the only announcement Samsung SDI made today at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) 2017. The company also confirmed an improved "21700" cylindrical battery, a large shotgun shell-shaped cell with "improved energy density, power and performance."

Major EV makers are focusing on the 21700 -- named after its 21mm diameter and 70mm length. Tesla confirmed recently that its Gigfactory had begun full production of its own lithium-ion battery cells developed in partnership with Panasonic.