EV Battery Safety: Overheating, Mishaps & New Solutions
Electric Vehicles inch closer every day to create another significant automobile revolution in the world. But why hasn’t it already? Simply put, the safety concerns that drive away potential customers. Battery explosions causing fires and injuries can be a significant red flag, but it’s not like we aren’t looking for solutions!
Let us talk about how scientists could turn EVs into the future and change the world.
Solid State: A Game Changer?
We know what you’re thinking – “Solid state? What is that?” Let us put it simply – our batteries tend to have liquid electrolytes, which serve as a medium that enables the movement of lithium ions, but at the cost that they need to heat up and, the kicker, they’re easy to catch on fire. Solid electrolytes do it better; they do everything liquid does at room temperature.
Not convinced? Here are the benefits –
- Imagine filling up your EV in just minutes, similar to how you gas up your car today. Solid-state batteries have the potential to significantly reduce charging times (without blowing up, of course!).
- Solid-state batteries may offer more capacity, allowing EVs to travel farther on a single charge.
- The most crucial part is that solid electrolytes are significantly less flammable than their liquid counterparts, potentially reducing the risk of fires.
Solid-state batteries are solid (pun intended!), so why not switch up right now? Their major problem is that they don’t burn but burn holes through your pocket. The first task is to make them more affordable to mass produce and distribute. Fortunately, major car companies are substantial investors in solid-state batteries so that we might be close to an eco-friendly future!
Beyond Lithium
Lithium-ion batteries are today’s dominant force in EVs, but scientists are exploring alternative materials. Here are two examples:
- Sodium is a much more abundant element than lithium, which could make sodium-ion batteries cheaper and more sustainable. The only issue is that sodium is less effective than lithium, which researchers are working to improve.
2. When we mention lithium metal batteries, “Wait, replace lithium with… lithium?” is a question that would come to mind. No, these batteries replace the lithium ions with lithium anodes, which can store much more energy but still have safety concerns.
The Road Ahead
The future of EV batteries is bright. Solid-state batteries have the potential to revolutionize the industry, while advancements in lithium-ion and alternative battery technologies will continue to improve range, affordability, and safety. As these innovations hit the market, EVs are poised to become an even more compelling choice for drivers worldwide.