How advancements in battery technology continue to strengthen the EV’s foothold
Battery technology continues to improve range and affordability
EVs offer ever-more benefits over ICEs
In recent years, there have been huge advancements in batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) in terms of the mass-production process and the materials used as well as the underlying technology. As a result, today’s batteries offer a range that fulfils most business drivers’ needs at a price point that makes EVs affordable, which is why they are becoming an ever-more appealing alternative to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. As a key component in EVs, batteries remain the focus of continuous further development work among scientists and forward-looking OEMs. This blog highlights three battery technologies that – although currently at various stages of maturity – could have transformative potential in the future if they eventually become commercially viable.
Transformative potential
The 3 battery technologies to watch
1. NEW-GENERATION LITHIUM-ION
The advantages of today’s high-density lithium-ion (Li-ion) EV batteries – which include supporting fast charge, a very low level of self-discharge and a long lifetime – are the result of continuous research and development efforts leading to impressive incremental improvements. This work is still ongoing and has the potential to unlock even more energy and power in a new generation of Li-ion batteries over the next decade.
2. SOLID-STATE LITHIUM-ION
Solid-state Li-ion battery technology is seen as a potential game-changer for EV power. These ‘super batteries’ could offer up to 2.5 more energy capacity and much faster charging in the same size pack as today’s lithium-ion batteries. The result would be a battery that could completely charge or discharge in just a few minutes and with very limited self-discharge. Moreover, solid-state batteries would make it possible to use EVs in extremely harsh temperature conditions (e.g. from minus 30⁰C to 100⁰C). Solid-state batteries have already progressed beyond the laboratory phase and major OEMs are investing heavily in this technology, making it fairly likely that it could be commercialised within the next five to ten years.
3. LITHIUM-SULPHUR
Lithium-sulphur (Li-S) batteries are being hailed as the next big step in battery technology for all kinds of products, from smartphones to electric vehicles. In theory, the energy density could be four times greater than that of Li-ion and they could promise significantly longer use on a single charge, offering the potential to power a vehicle for up to 1,000 km. Major technological barriers have already been overcome in the laboratory and the maturity level is rapidly progressing towards full-scale prototypes. However, things are still at the experimental stage and no OEMs are currently investing in this technology, so it is unlikely that it will reach the market in the coming decade.
New impetus for full-electric fleets
Tailor-made mobility solutions
As they prepare for the post-pandemic economy, many companies are taking this opportunity to reassess their fleets and explore how EVs can contribute to achieving their financial objectives and sustainability goals. Today’s batteries mean that range anxiety, long charging times, safety concerns and high purchase prices for EVs have already become a thing of the past, giving additional impetus to the transition to a full-electric fleet. Although all three of these future battery technologies are still some way off being commercially viable, if any of them deliver on their potential we can expect the next generation of batteries to recharge even faster, last for even longer, be even safer and have an even lower environmental impact – so EVs are definitely here to stay. Feel free to contact us for advice on the best transition strategy and a tailor-made EV solution that fits your needs. We can support you throughout the process, including with vehicle choices, charging solutions and implementation services.