Types of batteries for electric cars:
Imagine Lithuania's roads, where more and more electric cars are rolling silently and elegantly. This is not a vision of the future, but a rapidly changing present. At the beginning of 2023, there were 12,510 registered EVs in Lithuania. Today, there has been a real boom in the number of electric cars - doubling to 24 291! This is not just a statistic, but a clear sign that Lithuania is rapidly entering the era of electric transport.
These impressive figures not only reflect the growing interest of Lithuanians in electric vehicles, but also raise the natural question: what is behind the bonnet of these innovative vehicles? In this article, we will look in more detail at the different types of EV batteries, their advantages and disadvantages.
From past to present: the evolution of batteries
The history of electric car batteries dates back to the 19th century. The lead-acid batteries used at that time were disposable. The first electric car could travel just 2.4 km at a maximum speed of 6.4 km/h while carrying 6 tonnes. After that, the battery had to be replaced. Over the last 150 years, the evolution of electric car batteries has been staggering. From heavy and inefficient lead-acid batteries to modern lithium-ion batteries, we have seen the true revolution of the electric car.
Today, electric car batteries are incomparably more powerful, durable and efficient. From the first models that could travel just a couple of kilometres, today's EVs can travel up to 500 km on a single charge.
Types of batteries in electric cars: what are the differences?
Modern electric cars use different types of batteries, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The main types of EV batteries are:
Lithium-ion Li-ion) batteries: This is the most widely used type of battery in EVs. They have a high energy density, long life and good performance in a wide range of conditions. However, they are more expensive and can pose safety problems due to the risk of overheating.
- Lithium iron phosphate LFP batteries: these batteries are safer and cheaper than standard lithium-ion batteries. They also have a longer lifetime. However, they have a lower energy density, so electric cars with LFP batteries tend to have a lower range. LFP batteries are also more sensitive to frost.
- Nickel metal hydride NiMH batteries: Although less commonly used in new EVs, these batteries are still found in some hybrid cars. They are reliable and safe, but have a lower energy density than lithium-ion batteries. They are also usually heavier and larger, which can affect the efficiency of an electric vehicle.
- Solid electrolyte batteries: These are the latest generation of batteries that are not yet used in electric cars. They promise better safety, faster charging and higher energy capacity. However, the production of these batteries is still complex and expensive.
Each type of battery has its own advantages and disadvantages, so EV manufacturers choose batteries based on the needs and cost of the specific model. As technology advances, it is expected that even more efficient and convenient battery types will become available in the future.
