Mighty Chinese: #1 in EV Batteries and many myths!

0

Electric Vehicles are a rage today, and they run on batteries. Learn about what EV batteries are made of and snuff out the myths! Chinese are once again at the helm of cutting-edge technology innovations, this time for hybrid EV batteries. Chinese firm CATL Freevoy Super Hybrid Battery offers hybrid EVs a 248-mile ‘pure electric’ driving range on a single 10-minute charge.

These batteries combine the latest Sodium-ion and established Lithium-ion technologies to extend mileage over a low-temperature range. They are designed to work in both EREVs (Extended-Range EVs) and PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid EVs), which are becoming popular. They provide peace of mind because they have a small gasoline generator onboard hybrid EVs.

EREVs (Extended-Range Electric Vehicles)

These are electric vehicles that use an electric motor for propulsion. When the battery charge depletes, the small onboard gas engine kicks in to provide electric power to the motor and simultaneously charge the onboard batteries, extending the EV’s range.

Examples: Chevrolet Volt (1st generation), BMW i3 REx.

PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles)

These EVs combine a traditional internal combustion (IC) engine with an electric motor drive run by an externally chargeable battery pack. They can run on ‘pure electric’ for about 50 miles when the hailing engine takes over when the battery charge depletes. They provide flexibility, with the option to switch between electric and gasoline modes. They also significantly reduce fuel consumption, as the committee is short.

Examples: Toyota Prius Prime, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.

EREVs are ideal for those who want a primarily electric driving experience with a backup for long trips, while PHEVs offer a balanced approach for mixed-use scenarios.

CATLs Freevoy Super Hybrid Battery. Image Courtesy: Yahoo tec.

Newer models have higher-capacity batteries, extending electric-only ranges.

Smart Technology

Integration with apps for route optimization, charging station locators, and energy monitoring.

Advanced battery management systems (BMS)

Wireless BMS increases the efficiency of EV batteries by sending periodic reports on temperature, voltage levels, and other parameters and efficiently controlling motor drive requirements.

Cell monitoring chip.

Independent chips now monitor individual battery cells, helping eliminate fire incidents due to battery overheating. This is due to advances in battery chemistry, materials, and software algorithms.

EVs are here to stay; here is why.

In the past, we heard about EV showrooms gutted by fire caused by battery malfunctions and scooters destroyed due to overheating batteries. Most were found to be media hype or rare incidents. Rapid advancements in battery technologies have alleviated most of these sporadic incidents.

EV batteries are no longer modular.

Today, battery architecture is changing to be simpler and more flexible. Cells are now being integrated into the vehicle structure. Building battery packs by chaining multiple modules is passé. Newer architectures, like Cell-to-Pack and Cell-To-Chassis designs, help integrate batteries into chassis, boosting power density and space savings. This also reduces overall battery weight.

EV batteries no longer have a short life span.

Due to rapid advancements in battery chemicals and materials, some manufacturers are offering up to a 10-year warranty! This is made possible by improved BMS (Battery Management System); some are also offering wireless.

EV batteries are recyclable and safe now.

With a better understanding of cell history, ‘State of health’ and chemical composition, these batteries are now sustainable. Careful monitoring of each cell’s temperature, voltage, current handling, and the SMART Fuse technology have made EV batteries safer.

Today’s EV battery technology is at the cutting edge of science and innovation, transitioning to a more sustainable and efficient vehicular world. Though advancements in lithium-ion management have enabled longer ranges, faster charging, and durability, several challenges remain, such as high production costs, environmental issues, and resource scarcity.

Efforts are being made to develop next-generation batteries, such as solid-state, lithium-sulfur, and sodium-ion. Battery recycling is a big business and a go-to area.

Affordable, greener, and sustainable batteries are the expectation the world over.

Let’s face it: EVs are here to stay and thrive!

An engineer who is interested in how nature works and is designed. I consider nature to be my bottomless reserve of innovative ideas. Including my passion for writing. Learning never stops. It is a cliche..... does it matter?!

Leave A Reply

Copyright © 2024 INPAC Times. All Rights Reserved

Exit mobile version