The world runs on batteries more and more frequently each year. EV sales surpassed 10% of all vehicle sales worldwide in 2022. By the end of 2030, analysts expect those numbers to reach 40%.
Increased electrification will prompt demand for a new EV battery that lasts longer and is cost-friendly enough for mass production. Fortunately, these batteries have evolved quickly thanks to advances in chemistry and manufacturing techniques. These enhancements have led to longer ranges, faster charging times, and lower prices.
This article lists reasons why the auto industry needs a new EV battery and discusses new types manufacturers plan to market.
5 Reasons Why the Industry Needs a New EV Battery
There are several reasons why the industry needs better EV batteries, five of which are as follows:
1. Cost Reduction
The cost of EV batteries significantly affects the overall EV price. Improved batteries with lower production costs can lower the price of EVs, making them more accessible to customers.
2. Environmental Impact
Battery production and disposal negatively impact the environment, a worldwide concern. Better batteries that are more effective, last longer, and recycle more easily can lessen the environmental impact of EVs.
3. Range Anxiety
Drivers often worry about losing battery power before reaching their destination. This concern is known as “range anxiety” and impacts many consumers who drive EVs with a short range. This issue is resolvable, however, as engineers design new EV batteries with longer ranges, making them more useful for long-distance travel.
4. Energy Security
Many nations aim to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels for transportation. EVs powered by improved batteries can help them meet this objective by decreasing dependence on imported oil and enhancing energy security.
5. Faster Charging Times
EVs become practical for drivers who want to spend less time charging their cars if their batteries charge faster. Faster charging times can also reduce reliance on public charging infrastructure and increase the appeal of EVs to more consumers.
Overall, improved EV batteries can increase electric vehicles’ utility, affordability, and environmental sustainability. These improvements can quicken the transition to a cleaner, more environmentally-friendly transportation system.
5 New EV Battery and Component Types
Five recent developments in EV battery technology and methods include the following:
1. Recycling and Reuse
Worldwide interest in EV battery recycling and reuse systems grows as more EVs hit the road. Recycling can help recover important components and reduce the environmental effects of battery production. Reuse can increase battery life and lessen the need for added manufacturing.
2. Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
Lithium-sulfur batteries can store more energy than lithium-ion batteries because they have an increased energy density. They are also cheaper to manufacture and use a more abundant material (sulfur) as the cathode.
3. Solid-State Batteries
Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries that contain a liquid electrolyte, solid-state batteries use a solid electrolyte. Compared to conventional batteries, they have a higher energy density, a longer lifespan, a faster charging rate, and improved safety.
4. Cobalt-Free Cathodes
Some lithium-ion batteries use cobalt, a relatively scarce and expensive material, in their cathodes. To lower those costs and increase sustainability, manufacturers are creating cobalt-free cathodes using nickel, manganese, and iron components.
5. Silicon Anodes
Manufacturers are also testing the efficacy of silicon as an alternative to graphite in lithium-ion batteries’ anodes. Because silicon has a far higher energy density than graphite, EVs may have a more comprehensive operating range.
Equip Your Sales Team with the Knowledge and Technology to Sell More EVs
A new EV battery can improve drivers’ comfort, convenience, and enjoyment while on the road. The range, charging times, performance, and durability of EV batteries should all continue to improve as battery technology develops.
However, manufacturers developing enhanced batteries to address consumer concerns is uncommon knowledge. Your sales team must learn more about these improvements to reassure customers that EVs will perform well in the future.
Contact us today and learn how Affinitiv’s innovative solutions and EV initiative can help your dealership learn more about the new EV battery to address consumer concerns about reliability and performance.