What is the difference between car batteries and electric vehicle batteries?
2 Answers
Differences between car batteries and electric vehicle batteries: 1. Car batteries work by discharging instantaneously when the engine motor starts. Electric vehicle batteries continuously discharge to power the motor operation. 2. Car batteries are starting-type batteries, while electric vehicle batteries are power-type batteries, also known as traction batteries. Here are some relevant details: 1. Car batteries are used to supply power to the starting motor and for equipment lighting. Their characteristic is that the instantaneous discharge current is particularly large, reaching over 500 amps when starting the vehicle. The drawback is that the capacity decreases relatively quickly during high current discharge, making them unsuitable for prolonged discharge. 2. The characteristic of electric vehicle batteries is that the instantaneous discharge current is smaller, making them suitable for continuous low-current discharge and more appropriate for prolonged discharge. 3. The lifespan of car batteries is typically around 4 years. When a car battery reaches 4 years of age, it should be promptly inspected.
There are significant differences between car batteries and electric vehicle (EV) batteries. Having driven various types of vehicles, I feel their purposes differ substantially. Car batteries are primarily designed to start the engine, using lead-acid technology with 12V low voltage—they have small capacity but provide instant high power. EV batteries, however, serve as the core power source for the entire vehicle, utilizing lithium technology with hundreds of volts, delivering sustained output for long-distance travel.
Costs vary dramatically too: car batteries cost just a few hundred yuan, while EV batteries can run into thousands or even tens of thousands. In terms of maintenance, car batteries are more durable, whereas EV batteries are sensitive to overcharging/discharging and require professional charging stations. Weight-wise, car batteries are lighter, while EV batteries are bulkier.
Practically, if you only care about ignition, car batteries are more cost-effective. But for long-distance travel, EV batteries are far more efficient. Lifespan differs: car batteries may need replacement every 5 years, while EV batteries last over 8 years but are much more expensive.
