It is safe to say that in the last few years Electric Vehicles have well and truly become a norm, and are seen much more on the streets than earlier. More and more consumers are starting to opt, or at least starting to consider an EV as their next Car. Arguably the most important part of an EV is the EV batteries. The performance metric of an EV is directly related to the performance of its battery in terms of the range and efficiency.
So, lets try to see in very brief what types of EV batteries are available today, and what are the charging options.
Types of Batteries
Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) Batteries (Most Common)
Composed of Lithium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, aluminium, and graphite, these have high energy density providing more range, fast charging. It is used in most EVs including Tesla, BMW, Hyundai, VW.
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) Batteries (Growing in Popularity)
Composed of Lithium, iron and phosphate, these are stable, safer, cost lower but have shorter range than Li-Ion. It is used by Tesla (standard range model), BYD and other Chinese EVs.
Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Batteries (Mostly in Hybrids)
Composed of Nickel, metal hydride, and a hydrogen-absorbing alloy, these have longer life span than early Li-Ion batteries, are environmentally friendly but have low energy density are not ideal for full EVs. Mostly used in older hybrid EVs like Toyota Prius and some Honda models.
Solid-State Batteries (Future Technology)
Composed by solid electrolyte instead of liquid, these have longer range than 2x the Li-Ion batteries, charge faster, and have longer lifespan, but these are still in early-stage development.
Sodium-Ion Batteries (Emerging Alternative)
Composed of Sodium-based cathode and anode materials, these would be cheaper, sustainable than Li-Ion, would work well in cold temperatures, however these would have shorter range. CATL and BYD are testing them for future EVs
All in all, Li-Ion still remains the most used battery type because of the range and performance it provides, however in coming years as the EV market grows, we will see more and more innovation in the Battery Technology as well.
If you found this article interesting and want to read about the various Battery chargers, connector types and more, check below article
Also, check this article to read about the Top 10 EV Battery Manufacturers in the world.
