What are the main types of batteries used in electric vehicles?
2 Answers
Electric vehicles primarily use four types of batteries: lead-acid batteries, water-based batteries, maintenance-free gel batteries, ternary lithium batteries, and lithium iron phosphate batteries. The details are as follows: Characteristics of ternary lithium batteries: Ternary lithium batteries excel in collaboration, offering the highest energy capacity for the same weight. However, they tend to operate at slightly higher temperatures, requiring strict cooling measures. For safety, each battery cell must be equipped with a protective device. Characteristics of lithium iron phosphate batteries: These batteries are favored by most automakers. Although their energy capacity per unit weight is lower than that of ternary lithium batteries, they offer excellent thermal stability, reducing the risk of overheating, and have lower cooling component costs. Additionally, they boast high energy density, compact size, long battery life, and superior safety.
Currently, the electric vehicle market is predominantly powered by lithium-ion batteries, but there are significant differences when you look into the details. A friend of mine who works at a battery factory mentioned that the most commonly used types are ternary lithium batteries and lithium iron phosphate batteries. Ternary lithium batteries have higher energy density and perform better in winter, making them popular in high-end vehicles like Tesla and NIO. On the other hand, lithium iron phosphate batteries, though heavier, excel in longevity and safety, with blade batteries being a prime example. Lead-acid batteries are mostly used in low-speed electric vehicles, while Toyota hybrids utilize nickel-metal hydride batteries. Recently, solid-state batteries have been a hot topic, rumored to solve range anxiety, but mass production is still a few years away. When choosing a car, it's best to clarify the battery type, as it directly impacts the cost of battery replacement later on.
