What are the main power batteries used in electric vehicles?
4 Answers
Types of power batteries include lithium manganate batteries, lithium iron phosphate batteries, ternary lithium batteries, etc. The following are detailed introductions: Characteristics of lithium manganate batteries: Lithium manganate batteries have low cost, good safety and low-temperature performance, but the material itself is not very stable and prone to decomposition to produce gas. Therefore, they are often mixed with other materials to reduce battery cell costs. Characteristics of lithium iron phosphate batteries: They have excellent thermal stability, safety, low cost, long lifespan, but low energy density and poor performance in low temperatures. The vehicle range is average, and charging efficiency is low when the temperature is below -5 degrees Celsius, making them unsuitable for winter charging needs in northern regions. Characteristics of ternary lithium batteries: Ternary lithium-ion batteries have high energy density, long cycle life, and are not afraid of low temperatures; however, their stability is insufficient at high temperatures. They can achieve the highest energy density, but their high-temperature performance is relatively poor. For pure electric vehicles with range requirements, they are the mainstream direction and suitable for northern weather, as the batteries are more stable in low temperatures.
In the field of electric vehicles, power batteries are the core components, mainly including lithium-ion battery types, such as ternary lithium batteries and lithium iron phosphate batteries. Ternary lithium batteries have high energy density, enabling longer vehicle range, especially suitable for high-speed driving; however, they are relatively more expensive. Lithium iron phosphate batteries offer good safety, stable charging and discharging, long lifespan, and are more affordable, making them popular in many budget-friendly vehicles. Besides these, there are other types like lead-acid batteries, which were seen in older vehicles but are rare in modern EVs; solid-state batteries are also under development, touted as safer and more reliable. The choice of battery affects the overall performance and driving experience of the vehicle. Having tested vehicles from different brands, I found that the battery type often determines charging time and durability. For example, in cold winter temperatures, the battery may discharge faster, so maintenance is crucial. Future technological advancements may bring better solutions, and staying updated always offers new insights.
Nowadays, more people are driving electric vehicles. As far as I know, the main power batteries are still the lithium-ion battery series, with the most common types being two categories: ternary lithium and lithium iron phosphate. Ternary lithium batteries have the advantage of high energy storage, allowing for long-distance travel on a single charge, which is reassuring for highway driving; the downside is that they are more expensive and not resistant to high temperatures. Lithium iron phosphate batteries are the opposite, being low-cost and safe, with a lower risk of catching fire, making them suitable for daily commuting—BYD's Blade Battery is this type. Additionally, the old lead-acid batteries are too heavy and have long been phased out; emerging sodium-ion batteries are currently being tested, which may reduce costs. The type of battery directly affects the user experience. My own car uses ternary lithium, and a single charge lasts a week, but performance noticeably drops in cold regions. When choosing a car, it's important to pay attention to these details to avoid trouble later on.
As an electric vehicle owner, paying attention to the cost and practicality of power batteries is crucial. Lithium-ion batteries are the mainstream, with ternary lithium offering better performance but at a higher price. If on a budget, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) is more cost-effective, has a longer lifespan, and offers higher value for money. Others, like lead-acid batteries, are outdated and offer poor value. Battery choice directly impacts ownership costs—cheaper batteries require less initial investment but may affect range; high-end batteries charge faster and save on long-term maintenance costs. I believe choosing the right battery should be based on one's financial capability and best matches their needs.
