What is the difference between car batteries and electric vehicle batteries?
2 Answers
Here is an introduction to the differences between car batteries and electric vehicle batteries: 1. Different types: Car batteries are starting batteries, while electric vehicle batteries are power batteries, also known as traction batteries. 2. Different current and voltage: Car batteries have high current and low voltage, while electric vehicle batteries have high voltage and low current. 3. Different uses: Car batteries are used for cars, and electric vehicle batteries are used for electric vehicles. The following is an introduction to the classification of batteries (storage batteries): 1. Ordinary batteries: Composed of lead and lead oxide, the electrolyte is an aqueous solution of sulfuric acid. The main advantages are stable voltage and low price; the disadvantages are low specific energy (i.e., the amount of electricity stored per kilogram of battery), short service life, and frequent daily maintenance. 2. Dry-charged batteries: The main feature is that the negative plate has a high power storage capacity. In a completely dry state, it can retain the obtained power for two years. When in use, only the electrolyte needs to be added, and it can be used after 20-30 minutes. 3. Maintenance-free batteries: Due to the advantages of their own structure, maintenance-free batteries consume very little electrolyte and basically do not require the addition of distilled water during their service life. They have the characteristics of shock resistance, high temperature resistance, small size, and low self-discharge.
I've driven both gasoline cars and electric vehicles, and the differences in their batteries are quite significant. Gasoline car batteries are typically lead-acid batteries, with one main job: starting the engine, like the moment you turn the key when power consumption is high. Electric vehicle batteries are lithium-ion, powering the entire car with greater capacity and higher power output. In daily use, gasoline car batteries are simpler—just check the fluid levels occasionally, and they might need replacement every three to four years. Forget to turn off the lights or face cold weather, and you risk a dead battery and a stranded car. Electric vehicle batteries have high capacity but charge slowly, requiring home charging stations or fast-charging points. In terms of lifespan, EV batteries are designed for durability, lasting over a decade, but repairs can be costly. Safety-wise, lead-acid batteries can leak acid, while damaged lithium-ion batteries may pose a fire hazard, requiring extra caution. From a driving experience perspective, gasoline cars are noisy after ignition, and a failing battery means stalling. EVs are much quieter, but a battery issue means a complete shutdown, needing a tow for repairs. Overall, in terms of practicality, EV batteries are more advanced but come with higher failure costs—regular slow charging helps maintain battery health.