Introduction
Electric vehicles (EVs) have come a long way since their inception. The most remarkable advancements have been in battery technology, a cornerstone for the functioning and efficiency of EVs1. In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the current state of battery technology in electric vehicles and speculate on its evolution over the next decade.
Current State of Battery Technology in EVs
The most common electric car battery is lithium-ion2. These batteries are rechargeable, designed for a high kilowatt-hour (kWh) capacity, and come with a comparatively good power-to-weight ratio, as well as specific energy and energy density2. Lithium-ion batteries are also found in smartphones and power the vast majority of electric vehicles3. Lithium is very reactive, and batteries made with it can hold high voltage and exceptional charge, making for an efficient, dense form of energy storage3.
The story of the EV battery has its roots in the 19th century, but it’s in the last two decades that the real magic has happened. Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries were the stars of early electric vehicles. However, they had their limitations, such as lower energy density and reduced lifespan1. Enter Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. These became a game-changer, offering higher energy storage, lower weight, and a longer life cycle1. Tesla’s Roadster in 2008 set a new benchmark with its lithium-ion cells, offering an unprecedented 245 miles of range1.
The Future of Battery Technology in EVs
Looking ahead, the future of battery technology in electric vehicles is promising. Advancements like solid-state batteries and quick charging capabilities are in the pipeline, preparing to usher in a new era of electric driving1.
Solid-state batteries are one of the most anticipated advancements in EV battery technology. These batteries replace the liquid components in traditional batteries with solids, potentially improving the range of electric vehicles4. Solid-state batteries could also move charge around faster, meaning shorter charging times4. And because some solvents used in electrolytes can be flammable, proponents of solid-state batteries say they improve safety by cutting fire risk4.
Moreover, researchers are experimenting with different designs that could lower costs, extend vehicle ranges, and offer other improvements5. For instance, Chinese manufacturers have announced budget cars for 2024 featuring batteries based not on the lithium that powers today’s best electric vehicles (EVs), but on cheap sodium5.
Conclusion
The next decade will be transformational for battery technology in electric vehicles. With the continuous research and development in this field, we can expect to see batteries that are more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. As we move towards a more sustainable future, the evolution of battery technology will play a crucial role in shaping the landscape of electric vehicles.
References
1: Future of EV Batteries: Tech, Advancements, & What’s Next 2: EV battery technology explained 3: How does an EV battery actually work? 4: What’s next for batteries in 2023 5: The new car batteries that could power the electric vehicle revolution