Energy Storage for Electric Vehicle Batteries

Electric Vehicles (EV) are projected to become increasingly prominent in the Transport industry; due both to consumers’ desire for a smaller carbon footprint, as well as improved Electric Vehicle technology. According to Goldman Sachs’s predictions, battery demand will grow at an annual rate of 32% for the next 7 years. As a result, there is a pressing need for battery technology, key in the effective use of Electric Vehicles, to improve. As the lithium ion material platform (the most common in Electric Vehicle batteries) suffers in terms

of weight, energy density, and cost; current research is being undertaken into building cells with lithium metal electrodes, which may increase the energy density of the same batteries by as much as 50 percent. Furthermore, at Tesla’s Gigafactory, work is being undertaken to deliver a ‘breakthrough’ battery, with a production cost lower than current technology provides. This may allow automakers to sell Electric Vehicles at prices comparable to more conventional fossil-fueled cars. The efficiency of charging Electric Vehicle batteries is also a focus for improvement. For example, rapid charging points can be used by most new Electric Vehicles to top up batteries by up to 80% capacity in approximately 30 minutes. There is significant potential for Electric Vehicle battery charging. Currently, Nissan is working on the effectiveness of the Vehicle to Grid System (V2G) in select European cities, aiming to introduce this to areas across Europe. Drivers can connect to the grid during cheap-tariff periods and use the electricity stored in the vehicle’s battery to power their homes, or even sell back to the grid. Vehicles can even be used as mobile energy points for outdoor events or emergencies. With new technology at the forefront of the industry, the possibilities surrounding the future of Energy Storage for Electric Vehicles are only beginning to be explored. To meet the rising demand for Energy Storage experts, the REI has developed an Energy Storage course which provides vital knowledge for professionals in the Energy, Automotive and Consultancy sectors. You can find out more about the course here: https://renewableinstitute.org/training/energy-storage-course/