Battery technology in an electric vehicle (EV) encompasses the specific type of battery chemistry employed, including the details of the cells and the system’s operating voltage, when such information is available. A higher system voltage allows for quicker DC charging, assuming the charging infrastructure is compatible.
Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) and Lithium-Polymer (Li-Polymer) batteries are prevalent in EVs due to their superior energy density relative to weight. The evolution of lithium-ion technology since the late 1990s has been propelled by the demand from consumer electronics like laptops, cell phones, and power tools, benefiting the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) sectors in terms of performance and energy density. In contrast to older nickel-cadmium batteries, lithium-ion batteries can undergo daily charging and discharging at any charge level.
Recent findings indicate that factors like heat exposure and rapid charging can accelerate the degradation of Li-ion batteries more than age or usage, with an average EV battery maintaining 90% of its capacity after six and a half years. Active cooling systems are crucial for slowing down battery degradation; batteries without such systems can degrade twice as quickly.
Modern EVs incorporate newer lithium-ion battery chemistries, designed to enhance fire resistance, environmental sustainability, fast charging capabilities, and longevity. These new types, including phosphates, titanates, and spinels, offer significantly extended lifespans. For instance, A123 systems using lithium iron phosphate can last over 10 years and sustain more than 7000 charging cycles, while lithium-manganese spinel batteries may have lifetimes extending to 40 years.
