Tesla's dry electrode process ditches toxic solvents and massive drying ovens, slashing factory space by up to 90% and energy costs dramatically. At scale, it enables micro-factories with 10x higher throughput, cutting battery costs 20-50% while boosting energy density 5-10% and lifespan via undamaged particles. Brutal truth: Scaling was hellishly tough, per Elon—any hiccups could delay rollout, but it locks in Tesla's edge, forcing rivals to play catch-up or license tech.