Why Doesn't BMW Use Lithium Iron Phosphate?

[DiEloise]

Because lithium iron phosphate batteries have very slow charging speeds and extremely high costs. Factors affecting speed: The higher the voltage, the faster the speed. The larger the current limit of the controller, the faster the speed. Additionally, for the motor itself, more magnetic steel inside results in higher speed. Lithium iron phosphate batteries are better than lead-acid batteries; with the same motor, lithium iron phosphate provides faster speed. Finally, tires also play a role. Working principle of the motor: The direction of the force on the conductor is determined by the left-hand rule. This pair of electromagnetic forces forms a torque acting on the armature, known as electromagnetic torque in rotating motors. The direction of the torque is counterclockwise, attempting to rotate the armature counterclockwise. If this electromagnetic torque can overcome the resisting torque on the armature, the armature will rotate counterclockwise.

[MacArcher]

As a car enthusiast, I believe BMW doesn't use lithium iron phosphate batteries mainly because their performance doesn't align well with premium vehicles. Lithium iron phosphate has lower energy density, meaning the same battery volume provides less power, which would affect electric range. BMW models like the i4 or iX emphasize long-distance driving and sportiness - if users run low on battery after short trips, the driving pleasure disappears. Lithium iron phosphate also charges slowly in cold temperatures and has poor heat dissipation, which would be frustrating for owners in northern regions. BMW has always pursued high-power-density batteries like NMC chemistry, which enables fast charging and explosive acceleration suitable for high-speed driving scenarios. While lithium iron phosphate is safe and stable, BMW uses advanced packaging technologies to control safety risks. Overall, performance priorities led BMW to choose NMC, though entry-level models might switch to lithium iron phosphate to reduce costs.

[LukasLee]

From a cost analysis perspective, I believe BMW's reluctance to prioritize lithium iron phosphate (LFP) stems from supply chain trade-offs. Although LFP is cheaper with lower material costs per kilowatt-hour, its lower energy density requires larger battery packs to achieve the same range, increasing vehicle weight and design complexity while complicating production chain optimization. As a global brand, BMW finds nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) materials easier to integrate into existing platforms with minimal R&D and production line modifications. Adopting LFP would necessitate redesigning thermal management systems and BMS, extending development timelines and costs. Economically, premium customers prioritize range over price sensitivity—BMW's strategy focuses on serving this demand segment first. While LFP could expand BMW's market reach in budget segments, this remains exploratory. Ultimately, comprehensive cost-efficiency considerations drive BMW's preference for NMC.

[SanAllison]

From a technical perspective, BMW's avoidance of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries stems from energy and power limitations. Their low density impacts range, and BMW's EVs require long-distance capability along with fast charging. LFP batteries charge slowly and perform poorly in cold weather discharge, while BMW has significant sales in frigid regions. NMC batteries offer higher power and more agile acceleration response. In battery management, BMW employs intelligent thermal control to balance safety. LFP may be used in base models, but the core focus remains on high-performance solutions.

[LaJuliette]

Speaking of safety, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries have lower thermal runaway risks and higher stability, but BMW does not adopt them as mainstream due to its already robust overall solution. By utilizing NMC batteries combined with precision sealing and active cooling systems, BMW ensures battery safety. Switching to LFP batteries would sacrifice power and range, which users are unwilling to compromise. BMW has invested heavily in innovation for its i-Series, such as solid-state battery R&D, to balance safety and performance demands.