Electric vehicles (EVs) have been steadily growing in popularity. As more automakers introduce new models, it’s becoming easier to envision a future dominated by electric transportation. However, the success of electric vehicles hinges on one critical factor: battery range. The battery’s capacity largely determines how far an EV can travel before needing a recharge.
So, how is all that power stored? Electric car batteries must be compact, capable of frequent and rapid recharging, and powerful enough to support long journeys.
This article delves into the most common types of electric vehicle batteries, their capacity, and their lifespan.
What Types of Batteries Do Electric Cars Use?
Over the past four decades, battery technology has advanced significantly. With the shift towards sustainable energy, we have moved far beyond traditional lead-acid batteries. Let’s explore the two most commonly used battery types in today’s EVs.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Most modern electric vehicles rely on lithium-ion batteries. There are six primary lithium chemistries, but EVs typically utilize the most energy-dense variations, such as Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LCO) and Lithium Nickel Cobalt Oxide (NCA).
In terms of battery structure, there are three main types of lithium-ion cells used in EVs: cylindrical, prismatic, and pouch-type. Each has its advantages and drawbacks.
For instance, Tesla opts for cylindrical battery cells due to their reliability and durability. Tesla’s battery packs contain thousands of lithium-ion cells arranged beneath the car’s chassis. In fact, a Tesla battery pack consists of approximately 2,976 lithium-ion cells, making it one of the highest energy-density battery systems in the world. However, cylindrical cells tend to be bulkier than other options.
Prismatic batteries, on the other hand, have a rectangular shape and solid casing, making them lighter and easier to fit into compact spaces. Volkswagen has recently transitioned to using prismatic batteries due to these benefits. However, they tend to have a shorter lifespan compared to cylindrical cells.
Pouch-type batteries, which are encased in thin, flexible metal bags, offer greater adaptability for unconventional spaces. While this makes them highly versatile, they are more prone to swelling and potential fire risks. Automakers such as GM and Hyundai integrate pouch-type batteries into their EVs.
Nickel-Metal Hydride Batteries
Developed in 1987, nickel-metal hydride batteries paved the way for hybrid vehicles. These batteries introduced a cathode material composed of lanthanum, nickel, cobalt, and silicon, allowing them to retain 84% of their charge even after 4,000 charge cycles.
Subsequent advancements further increased their energy density, surpassing that of lead-acid batteries. Today, nickel-metal hydride batteries are primarily found in hybrid vehicles due to their high energy output and safety. Additionally, unlike lead-acid batteries, their charge state does not significantly impact their performance.
However, nickel-metal hydride batteries come with some downsides. They are expensive, have high self-discharge rates, and require efficient cooling systems. Despite these challenges, they are used in hybrid models such as the Toyota Prius, Honda Insight, and Civic Hybrid.
What Is the Capacity of an Electric Car Battery?
The energy capacity of an EV battery varies based on multiple factors, including the battery type and vehicle model. Battery capacity is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), with higher capacities enabling longer driving ranges.
Typically, EV battery capacities range from 40 kWh to 200 kWh. For example, the Tesla Model S and Model X feature 100 kWh batteries, offering around 300 miles per charge. Meanwhile, a Nissan Leaf, equipped with a 40 kWh battery, delivers approximately 149 miles per charge.
How Long Do Electric Car Batteries Last?
For potential EV buyers, battery longevity is a key concern. After all, the effectiveness of an EV depends on the durability of its power source.
While lithium-ion EV batteries do not last as long as Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries, they typically endure for around 200,000 miles, or roughly 17 years. This lifespan is impressive for a vehicle battery.
Several factors influence battery longevity, including charge and discharge cycles, operating temperatures, and maintenance practices. Many EVs incorporate advanced battery management systems and thermal regulation to optimize performance and extend battery life.
What Happens to EV Batteries at the End of Their Life?
When an EV battery reaches the end of its lifespan, what happens next? Ideally, manufacturers recycle them to create new batteries. The recycling process involves shredding the batteries at specialized facilities and extracting valuable materials using heat or chemicals.
Unfortunately, recycling lithium-ion batteries remains a challenge. A significant barrier is the cost and complexity of labor and shipping logistics. In fact, transporting used lithium-ion batteries often requires more resources than extracting raw materials for new ones. This economic obstacle limits the current recycling rate. However, as lithium-ion batteries become the dominant energy source for EVs, industry leaders are actively working on solutions to make recycling more viable.
What’s Next for EV Battery Technology?
Innovations in EV battery technology continue to progress rapidly, addressing concerns such as energy density, production costs, and safety. Future advancements may also help resolve recycling challenges.
The primary goal is to develop batteries that store more energy, last longer, and charge faster—all while maintaining safety standards.
The Future of Electric Car Batteries
EV battery technology has made significant strides, making electric vehicles more affordable and reliable than ever before. Lithium-ion batteries remain the leading choice and will likely dominate the market for years to come.
Every battery type has its strengths and weaknesses, but ongoing advancements in electric vehicle battery technology may overcome many of the existing challenges in the EV industry. With continuous improvements, the future of electric vehicles looks promising.