Next-Gen Batteries: Powering EVs Beyond 2025
We have witnessed a rising trend in EV adoption worldwide. Goldman Sach estimates global EV penetration will jump from 2% in 2020 to 17% in 2025, 35% in 2030, and 63% in 2040. These estimates predict great opportunity for the EV sector globally. In India, the electric vehicle market size is projected to grow from USD 3.21 billion in 2022 to USD 113.99 billion in 2029, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 66.52 per cent. However, there are still a few roadblocks to overcome before EVs take over traditional vehicles- a long driving range, a short charging time and competitive pricing. The answer to these roadblocks is advancement in EV battery technology. The excellent news is that years of research and development in battery technology have resulted in the development of New-generation batteries.
Overview of EV battery technology
In 1801, Alexander Volta created the first battery. The first model designed was rudimentary, unlike the battery we know today. It consisted of thin strips of copper, cardboard and zinc, separated by damp leather. Batteries work on the principle of galvanic cells in which electrically charged particles move in a circuit from a negative pole to a positive pole, generating electricity. The battery is both an electrochemical energy store and a converter, thus converting energy into electrical energy. Modern batteries are by far more sophisticated in design compared to the initial design by Alexander Volta. Today, batteries are an indispensable part of smartphones, laptops and many modern devices. We cannot imagine our world without batteries.
Development Of Lithium-Ion Battery
Lithium-ion batteries were developed in 1972 by John B. Goodenough and Koichi Mizushima. The duo developed a rechargeable lithium cell with about 4 volts that used lithium cobalt dioxide as the positive electrode. Its rechargeability made it an essential component for the development of EVs. The term e-mobility is associated with the nineteenth-century British naturalist Micheal Faraday. In 1821, Faraday was able to prove that permanent rotation is produced by electromagnetism. The first EV was introduced in 1888 by German entrepreneur and inventor Andreas Flocken. The first EV in the 1900s used lead-acid batteries, which were bulky and had a limited range. In the 1990s, nickel-metal hydride batteries were used. They were lighter than lead-acid batteries but still offered a limited range. In the 21st century, lithium-ion batteries were used to run EVs, which transformed the EV industry.
Benefits Of Lithium-Ion Battery Technology
Lithium-ion batteries are lighter and have higher density than previous battery technologies, which means they have the capacity to store more energy in smaller packages. The rechargeability factor of lithium-ion batteries makes them viable for EVs. The lithium-ion creates a chemical reaction which produces electricity when discharged through the motors; the battery recharges itself as it reaches its total capacity using a regenerative braking system. Lithium-ion batteries are used in most electric vehicles because of their high energy density mass relative to other electrical energy storage systems, including high power-to-weight ratio, energy efficiency, Good high-temperature performance, and low self-discharge.
Disadvantages Of Lithium-Ion Battery
Though lithium-ion batteries are far superior to other battery technologies of the past. However, like any technology, it has its disadvantages:
High Cost
Lithium-ion batteries are costly. The high cost of the battery affects the overall cost of the vehicle, which makes it expensive compared to traditional fuel-based vehicles. The lack of competitive prices has become a roadblock in driving EV adoption.
High Heat Sensitivity
Lithium-ion batteries can heat up very quickly. This means they are unsuitable to drive long distances during hot weather. This makes EVs less viable, especially in a country like India, where summers are extreme. Also, low efficiency in lithium-ion batteries during extreme temperatures is observed.
Hard To Recycle
Recycling lithium-ion batteries is difficult and expensive. They still need to be an ecologically viable option. Most discarded lithium-ion batteries are dumped in landfills and are never recycled.
Lower Energy Storage Density
Compared to other batteries, lithium-ion has a lower energy storage density. This results in a shorter range for EVs. One of the reasons for motorists' reluctance to adopt EVs is the short travel range.
Fast Battery Ageing
Lithium-ion batteries age very fast. An EV battery has to change between five to eight years, a lesser duration than traditional vehicles. The early ageing of the battery is not cost-effective. First, EV batteries are very costly. Second, they do not make a viable option for reselling the vehicle.
Fragility
Lastly, lithium-ion batteries are very fragile. If they are overcharged, they can be damaged. This is why all EVs have battery management systems incorporated to protect the batteries from overcharging.
Advent Of Next Gen Batteries
The need for more efficient batteries has propelled massive research in the field of battery technology for EVs. Years of hard work by L&D companies and battery manufacturers resulted in the advent of next-gen batteries, like solid-state batteries designed especially for EVs. A solid-state battery is one in which all the components that make the battery are solid. Unlike a liquid lithium-ion battery, which is composed of liquid electrolytes, a solid-state battery is composed of solid electrolytes. By transforming from liquid to solid components, it is possible to create batteries with larger capacity and higher output. This development will add longer range and higher storage density in EVs.
Benefits of Next Gen Batteries
Energy Density Improvement:
Focus on enhancing the energy density of batteries is paramount. Higher energy density allows for longer driving ranges without compromising on the size and weight of the battery pack. Innovations in materials, such as advanced lithium-ion chemistries or alternative materials like solid-state electrolytes, are essential to achieve higher energy density.
Fast Charging Capability:
Developments in fast-charging technologies are vital for widespread EV adoption. Batteries capable of ultra-fast charging without significant degradation will address one of the main concerns of potential EV users. Investment in charging infrastructure is equally important to complement the capabilities of fast-charging batteries.
Extended Lifecycle:
Prolonging the lifespan of batteries is crucial for both economic and environmental reasons. Research and development focus on improving the cycle life of batteries, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste. Recycling and second-life applications can also contribute to the sustainability of battery technology.
Cost Reduction:
Driving down the cost of next-gen batteries is essential to make EVs more affordable and competitive with traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Economies of scale, advancements in manufacturing processes, and government incentives can play pivotal roles in achieving cost reductions.
Safety Enhancements:
Prioritize the development of safer battery technologies to mitigate the risk of thermal runaway and other safety concerns associated with high-capacity batteries. Implementing advanced battery management systems and incorporating redundant safety features will instil confidence in consumers and regulators.
Environmental Impact:
Consider the environmental impact of battery production and disposal. Research sustainable materials and manufacturing processes to minimize the ecological footprint of batteries. Establish robust recycling programs to recover valuable materials from retired batteries, reducing the overall environmental impact.
Integration with Renewable Energy:
Align battery development with the growth of renewable energy sources. Integrate EV batteries with solar and wind energy systems to create a holistic approach to clean energy solutions.
This synergy can contribute to grid stabilization and promote a more sustainable energy ecosystem.
Consumer Education:
Invest in consumer education programs to increase awareness of the benefits and advancements in next-gen batteries. Addressing misconceptions and highlighting the progress in battery technology can boost consumer confidence in EVs.
We are witnessing a rising trend in the adoption of EVs worldwide. More people are aware of the ecological benefits of choosing an EV over traditional fuel-based vehicles. However, specific improvements are still required in EV technology, especially in battery technology. For years, manufacturers and researchers have worked hand in hand to develop more efficient battery technology that will offer higher density storage, longer range, and cost effectiveness. Since the 2000s, lithium-ion batteries have been used in EVs. Lithium-ion batteries have improved capacity and are lighter than earlier batteries used in EVs. It still has its limitations. It is heat sensitive, ages faster, needs a battery management system and is expensive. The research in solid-state batteries holds promise for a better future. Since all the components of solid-state batteries are solid, this results in higher density and larger output. With new-gen batteries, the EV industry can contribute to the evolution of next-generation batteries, making electric vehicles more accessible, efficient, and environmentally friendly beyond 2025.
(Author is the CEO of PURE EV and views expressed here are those of personal.)
