Asking oneself whether to switch to electric vehicles has become increasingly important for drivers. More and more car manufacturers are developing electric vehicles, and some countries have pledged to prohibit the sale of gas-powered vehicles. It seems that the future is moving towards electric vehicles .
Although history has been full of unexpected changes, we firmly believe that electric vehicles are the future of the auto industry. This article aims to outline why, while examining recent developments in the EV market and the current path of the EV industry, especially when compared to traditional vehicles.
What Does the Future Hold for Electric Vehicles and the Automotive Industry?
While there are many small differences between electric vehicles and traditional vehicles, the most noticeable and significant distinction is their source of power. Electric vehicles utilize electricity, which can be sourced from various places (many of which are renewable), while traditional combustion-engine vehicles rely on consuming fuel (mainly fossil fuel). Despite our world’s heavy reliance on these fuels, the reality is that fossil fuels are not infinite.
Fossil fuels are a limited resource. Eventually, they will be depleted, and our gas-powered cars will become costly metal objects. Although this may seem like a distant, doomsday scenario, the years of fossil fuels remaining on the planet are measured in decades , not centuries. Some estimates suggest that we may run out by 2060… which is less than 40 years away.
Not to mention the issue of pollution and climate change. According to the EPA, approximately 29% of greenhouse gas emissions originate from transportation, making it the largest single contributor of GHG emissions in the US Cars are primary producers of pollutants with direct harmful effects on human health. Even if we were to sidestep the finite nature of fossil fuels by transitioning to biofuels like diesel, pollution would still be a significant problem, especially considering that diesel emits anywhere between 25 to 400 times the level of many pollutants.
In essence, the necessity of fuel, which cannot be avoided with traditional combustion engines, spells trouble for non-electric vehicles. The level of pollution they generate is unsustainable, and even if it were, we will run out sooner rather than later.
When Will Electric Cars Dominate and Why?
Determining the moment when EVs will surpass traditional cars is challenging. Will it be when there are more EV sales than traditional vehicle sales per year? When they generate more profit than traditional vehicles? Or when they constitute more than half of the vehicles on the road ? Any metric used will be subject to its own complications and biases, leaving us with an ambiguous finish line. Trying to predict when we will cross this hazy finish line is futile.
Instead, we should focus on examining the current trajectory of electric vehicles, preferably on a global scale that considers trends across different countries.
In this respect, the outlook for EVs looks promising. For one, EV sales surged by 67% between 2019 and 2020, the same year that overall vehicle sales decreased by 16%. While part of this difference could be ascribed to the theory that those with the means and desire to purchase an EV might have been more likely to have white-collar jobs that could transition to remote work without significantly impacting their income, it is unlikely that this accounts for the entire gap. Some of this growth, particularly in the United States, is attributable to two factors: legislative changes that facilitate EV adoption and the considerable improvement in EV technology, which continues to drive down costs and enhance their range and lifespan.
This combination addresses the three main concerns of potential EV buyers. In 2020, the total cost of owning an electric vehicle finally fell below the total cost of owning a gas-powered vehicle.
The World Resources Institute, mentioned earlier, indicates that the rate of EV adoption is increasing each year, following a pattern known as an S-curve. At the current pace, we could achieve 100% adoption by 2040. However, there have been recent developments that could either support or hinder this progress.
Gas Prices
It’s common knowledge that gas prices in 2022 have become a major topic of discussion. Furthermore, they are likely to rise due to the geopolitical climate. While various governments may ease this impact through subsidies, the increase in gas prices may potentially accelerate the adoption of EVs among buyers hesitated. The underlying cause of this rise in gas prices leads us to our next subject…
Global Conflict
Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and subsequent war crimes have dominated world politics since March. One aspect that has not received adequate attention is Russia’s oil revenue. Russia is a major oil exporter, and oil constitutes the largest portion of its income by a significant margin. Imposing an embargo on Russian oil imports would be the most potent economic sanction that could be imposed on Russia.
However, it’s not that simple. Oil is not a commodity that can be easily replaced, especially during a period of such geopolitical uncertainty.
Shortage of Semiconductors
In contrast, numerous sectors, including healthcare and gaming, have been impacted by the scarcity of semiconductors. While alternative semiconductor options have been explored in a previous article, the existing shortage may still hinder electric vehicle (EV) production and subsequently slow down EV adoption .
Even if we were reluctant to switch to EVs, we might not have a choice by around the middle of this century. Optimistic estimates suggest that complete EV adoption may occur around 2040, but global politics could either accelerate or impede this process. Nevertheless, the certainty remains: EVs represent the future. It’s just a matter of when that future will materialize.
By now, it’s common knowledge that electric vehicles are the future, but what exactly does the future hold for EVs?
In this edition of the Bonnet blog, we’re going to take a deep dive and ask you to contemplate the outlook of the future. The good news is, there are no signs of a Mark Zuckerberg in sight.
Robust Growth in Electric Vehicle Sales
The surge in electric vehicle sales in the coming years is projected to be exceptionally rapid. After a sluggish start, EV sales are currently booming thanks to the availability of affordable home chargers and the expansion of public charging infrastructure, which is rendering “range anxiety” and “charging anxiety” things of the past.
In March, new electric and hybrid vehicle sales made up one-third of all new car registrations. This sets a precedent for what’s to come. By 2025, it’s anticipated that 20% of all new cars sold globally will be electric, with this figure rising to 40% by 2030. In the UK, this percentage should be substantially higher, which is essential given the impending climate crisis.
New Electric Vehicles to be launched
Each year, the number of automakers joining the electric vehicle market continues to rise. Alfa Romeo is gearing up to introduce its first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) this year, with the brand-new Tonale combining elegant style and reduced emissions.
One noteworthy addition that is poised to shake up the electric vehicle market is the Dacia Spring, which is already available for purchase in Europe and is hailed as the continent’s most affordable EV. Priced at just over €12,000 in France, equivalent to around £10,500 , the Spring could make its way to our showrooms before the year ends. With seating for four, a range of 140 miles, and a spacious trunk capable of accommodating a week’s worth of luggage, it’s sure to be a hit.
For those willing to spend a little more, how about an all-electric Maserati? The Maserati Trofeo, Maserati’s first electric model, is slated for release in 2023. The only downside is that it’s comparatively slow, almost pedestrian, with a 0-62mph acceleration in a laborious 3.8 seconds. Nevertheless, that’s not too shabby for an SUV.
VW camper enthusiasts will also be delighted to learn that Volkswagen has unveiled its first all-electric campervan, the VW ID.Buzz. It will come equipped with an 82kWh battery and is expected to offer a range of 250 miles, although the obligatory surfboard will need to be purchased separately.
Doubling the Lifespan of EV Batteries
Electric vehicle and mobile phone batteries could see their lifespan doubled, all thanks to the efforts of researchers at the University of Queensland. They have developed lithium-ion battery nanotechnology that extends the lifespan of the Li-ion batteries that power electric vehicles, mobile phones , medical equipment, power tools, and various other devices.
Put on your lab coats and protective goggles. According to the lead professor Lianzhou Wang, the team based in Australia has “developed a uniquely grown atomic-thin functional layer on the surface of a high-voltage cathode, which is the source of lithium ions and a crucial component that limits the cycle life in a battery.”
In simpler terms, the new approach involves applying a protective coating to the battery to shield it from corrosion, which is the primary reason for battery degradation over time. It is hoped that this new technology will facilitate the production of the next generation of EV batteries , which will have a lower cost, higher energy density, and longer lifespan.
As manufacturers face mounting pressure to ramp up battery production to keep up with the growing demand for EVs, this new technology could prove to be a game-changer and pave the way for enhanced EV performance and affordability.
Other EV Innovations to Anticipate
While surging sales, improved batteries, and intriguing new EV models are all relatively certain in the near future, there are also a few other EV innovations that could revolutionize electric transportation in the coming years.
Continuous Charging on Intelligent Surfaces
Imagine a scenario where your electric vehicle is constantly charged by a special technology integrated beneath the surface of the road, eliminating the need to charge it overnight or at a public charging station en route. Although smart surfaces are still a long way off and may never come to fruition, it’s an idea that has been proposed to facilitate the global transition to EVs.
Solid-State Batteries
We’ve already touched upon how advancements in battery technology will be crucial in the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. One such advancement is solid-state batteries, which promise to be safer, more efficient, and longer-lasting than current lithium-ion batteries .
Two-way EV charging
Two-way charging, also called bidirectional charging, enables energy to flow both ways, from the grid to your EV and vice versa, allowing EV batteries to function as energy storage points. Traditional one-way chargers only power your car, but bidirectional charging transforms EV batteries into energy storage units.
They can store extra energy and even sell it back to the grid, provide emergency power during outages, and connect to renewable energy sources like home solar panels to make electric vehicles self-sufficient in energy.
Bidirectional chargers are getting smaller, more affordable, and more efficient over time, with the first bidirectional home EV chargers introduced earlier this year.
Transforming current cars into future classics.
Another amusing aspect of the electric revolution is the idea that electric vehicles will soon dominate the roads, making today’s petrol and diesel vehicles the classic cars of the future.
In 20 years, you might be admiring classic Vauxhall Corsas from the early 2000s, exclaiming, “Wow, that’s a beautiful old Vauxhall Corsa in green. What a beauty,” from the window of your EV. Maybe.
Enhancing the charging experience
At Bonnet, we are shaping the future of electric vehicles. We bring together all the leading charging networks in the UK and across Europe on a single app, allowing you to easily access flat-rate charging on the most popular public and destination chargers.
What are the recent guidelines for EVs in the Highway Code?
If you ask people about what’s discouraging them from buying an EV, many are likely to point to a lack of clear and up-to-date information about EV charging points.
An AA survey of over 13,000 drivers revealed that almost one-third (30%) of drivers are unsure about their ability to recharge an electric vehicle at a public charge point, and another 39% said they wouldn’t feel confident knowing if a charge point was compatible with their car.
Given the impending ban on the sale of petrol and diesel cars from 2030, we consider this lack of clarity unclear. If we want to accelerate towards an electric vehicle future, more must be done now to demonstrate to drivers how easy the EV charging process can be.
The Highway Code has been updated to include some EV charging information… but ultimately, not enough.
As part of its report, the AA recommended that the Highway Code be amended to include essential EV information. It has been amended, yet minimally. It now includes a brief section on EV charging, but it mainly focuses on the rules relating to EV charging rather than practical charging information. The new EV section in the revised Highway Code states:
When using an electric charger, individuals should:
• Park near the charge point and avoid creating a trip hazard with trailing cables.
• Display a warning sign if possible.
• Neatly return charging cables and connectors to minimize hazards and avoid obstructing other users.
We believe the Highway Code should offer more practical information to help people understand electric cars and alleviate the uncertainties that deter them. For instance, how to operate a charger and what to do if someone parks in front of an EV charger and blocks it from use .
The uncertainty surrounding EV charging points
Apart from the lack of information about EV charging, another source of confusion for EV drivers is the fragmented car charging infrastructure. Currently, there are over 30 charging networks across the UK.
Many current charge points require the download of apps and the setup of accounts before use. Additionally, only a small number of charging points accept direct payment by debit or credit card, making driving an electric vehicle seem inconvenient to some. The good news is that it doesn’t have to be this way, as we at Bonnet have the solution.
Alleviating EV charging concerns
At Bonnet, we alleviate charging concerns for the UK’s EV drivers by providing them with the charging experience they deserve. We consolidate over 17 charging apps into one simple EV charging app that you can use to charge your electric vehicle and make payments. We also standardize pricing across different charging networks, so you always know the cost of your charging.
Moreover, if you’re uncertain about how to charge your car, we offer live updates to provide you with the latest information about the chargers you’re interested in. There’s also a live chat function that offers expert EV charging support whenever you need it .
Recent Developments in EV Battery Technology
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more common worldwide, there are notable improvements in battery technology driving this shift. The progress in EV battery technology is crucial in unlocking the full potential of electric cars and their advancements. The use of electric vehicles represents a form of clean energy that competes with traditional gasoline-powered cars.
The batteries that power these EVs are intricate and rely on multiple factors, underscoring the importance of technological advancements for an enhanced industry. This post delves into the kinds of technology utilized in EV batteries and explores new technological advancements that are enhancing the EV battery industry.
What Technology is Utilized in EV Batteries?
EVs primarily employ lithium-ion powered batteries, which have become the standard technology for powering contemporary electric cars. These batteries are considered ideal for EVs due to their lightweight nature, high energy efficiency, and ability to perform well in various temperatures. Specific types of batteries, such as lithium iron phosphate (LFP), represent an advancement over traditional lithium-ion cells, boasting a longer lifespan and a wider temperature range. These technological advancements further enhance charging speed, safety, and sustainability, paving the way for more efficient and eco-friendly EV batteries in the future. Our Roadie Portable utilizes lithium-ion batteries for its battery technology, facilitating fast and efficient charging from any location at any time.
Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) Battery
The functionality of this technology is intricate, but simply put, lithium-ion batteries can support rapid and efficient charging due to their ability to maintain a high voltage. Other types of battery technologies include nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries, which offer faster charging and longer lifespans, although at a higher cost. Although NMC batteries may be more efficient, there is a greater risk of fire in the event of a malfunction. NMC necessitates battery materials that are more challenging to source, making large-scale manufacturing more difficult.
Solid-State Battery
Solid-state batteries represent another type of technology that replaces the liquid or gel-like electrolyte found in traditional batteries with a solid material. In a traditional battery, ion movement occurs through a liquid or gel. However, in a solid-state battery, the solid electrolyte enables ion transfer without the need for a liquid.
This advanced battery technology can offer benefits including enhanced safety, as the battery is less prone to leakage, and faster charging, as ions can move through the solid state more quickly than the liquid state. However, solid-state batteries have downsides, including a complex manufacturing process and increased cost compared to regular lithium-ion batteries.
Lithium-Sulfur Battery
Lithium-sulfur batteries represent another variation of lithium-ion battery using sulfur as the primary material, enabling greater energy storage and longer-lasting power for EVs. Sulfur is a cost-effective and readily available material, making the production of these batteries relatively straightforward The primary challenge of this battery type is its charging cycle.
While lithium-ion batteries can undergo thousands of charge cycles, providing a long lifespan for EVs, lithium-sulfur batteries struggle to complete nearly as many charging cycles. The sulfur wears down other parts of the battery, resulting in a shorter lifespan compared to lithium-ion batteries.
Who is Pioneering New EV Battery Technology?
Most recently, the US Department of Energy has made strides in developing longer-range lithium-ion batteries, which could lead to increased charging power and improved EV capabilities. This advanced battery technology could potentially boost the popularity of EVs, making products like the Roadie Portable more essential than ever. The Roadie is a new EV technology that is immediately deployable, capable of providing much-needed charge from any location at any time.
It comprises modular batteries that can be stacked to extend range and accommodate all charging needs. SparkCharge , we are continually developing new EV technology to enhance charging time and convenience for all fleets and drivers.
Toyota
Toyota has also achieved a significant breakthrough in EV technology development. With their new advancements in solid-state EV battery technology, they have created a battery that boasts a 10% reduction in cost and a 20% increase in range. Despite indicators pointing to new battery types becoming the standard in the EV industry, lithium-ion batteries currently lead the pack when considering all factors. Toyota plans to introduce their new battery types in 2026 and 2027, potentially influencing the standard EV battery technology.
What is the most effective battery technology for electric vehicles (EVs)? Although numerous types of EV batteries are accessible in the market, lithium-ion batteries have emerged as the top choice for several reasons. Their well-established manufacturing process and prolonged life cycle make them the preferred option. When considering common EVs such as hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, it becomes evident that lithium-ion batteries are the superior choice.
What are the advantages of Lithium Ion Batteries?
1. Charging Speed
Rapid charging is a crucial consideration in selecting the right battery. Lithium-ion batteries have made significant advancements in charging speed, which is cost-effective and widely available. With various options including portable chargers and charging services offered at SparkCharge, lithium-ion batteries are equipped to power both personal and fleet EVs. By leveraging our Roadie Portable or charging-as-a-service (CaaS) programs, achieving swift charging speed and efficiency is more convenient than ever before. We provide Level 3 (DC Fast Charging) , the most efficient charging option that gets your EV back on the road quickly.
2. Energy Density
Lithium-ion batteries currently offer a favorable balance between energy density and weight, enabling EVs to cover longer distances on a single charge without the hassle of frequent charging. Researchers are alternative exploring technologies such as solid-state batteries and lithium-sulfur batteries to enhance the energy density of lithium-ion batteries and energy storage. Nevertheless, the energy density provided by lithium-ion batteries is highly efficient and reasonable in terms of cost.
3. Cost
The cost of batteries is a significant factor in the selection of the best battery for an EV. Over the years, lithium-ion batteries have experienced substantial cost reductions due to increased production and wide availability. Other technologies such as solid-state batteries are currently more expensive to manufacture, making them less suitable for fleet use and large-scale production.
4.Safety
Overall, lithium-ion batteries are a secure option. Although there is always a potential risk of overheating, this should not be a concern when lithium-ion batteries are handled with care. As long as proper steps are taken to preserve their lifespan, they are safe as car batteries.
5.Durability
Long lifespans and the ability for reliable, consistent charging are crucial factors for EV batteries, ensuring their full support for the performance of the vehicle. Lithium-ion batteries have made significant advancements in this aspect, capable of powering both commercial and personal EVs. Driving range is a critical factor for all EVs, and lithium-ion batteries stand out as the most effective option for covering many miles of travel.
Overall, advancements in battery technology have played a crucial role in making electric vehicles more attractive, practical, and accessible to a broader range of consumers and businesses. With ongoing research and development, we can expect further breakthroughs that will continue to shape the future of electric mobility and the benefits associated with driving an electric vehicle. With our charging solutions including the Roadie Portable and CaaS programs, we are equipped to charge all EVs. SparkCharge has all your EV requirements covered, providing charging when and where you need it.
Electric vehicles are no longer a niche market. As major automotive companies gear up for mass production, are we on the brink of an electric revolution? Electric vehicles (EVs) have been in existence for well over 150 years – significantly longer than their petrol and diesel personnel. However, it is only in the last few years that drivers and car manufacturers have started to recognize the potential for an electric car revolution.
Advancements in battery construction and rapid charging technology mean that, for the first time since the 1870s, electricity has the opportunity to replace fossil fuels as the driving force behind the world’s transportation systems.
Is an all-electric future probable?
The replacement of billions of petrol cars with electric vehicles will not happen overnight, but many analysts predict that an all-electric future is increasingly likely. Several European countries have enshrined ambitious EV targets into law, with France and the UK both aiming to prohibit the sale of fossil-fueled cars by 2040. Additionally, EV sales are surging globally, with a 70% increase in 2018 alone.
For years, electric cars were only available from a handful of companies – primarily Tesla, along with the BMW i3, the Nissan Leaf, and Toyota’s Prius as the most well-known examples. Now, nearly every automotive company on the planet is entering the arena.
At the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, there was a widespread adoption of electrification. Numerous new electric models were on display as renowned brands gear up for mass production, including Volkswagen, Porsche, Volvo, and Audi. Mercedes’ parent company, Daimler, declared that they would have electric versions of their entire fleet by 2022, including popular models like the newly introduced smart car.
“Each year in the United States, 53,000 premature deaths are caused by exhaust emissions from fossil fuel transport, which are particularly harmful to children, the elderly, and low-income communities.”
Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular. However, can they truly compete with traditional gasoline-powered vehicles? And what might persuade consumers to choose to charge their next car at an electric plug instead of refueling it at a gas station?
The appeal of electricity
For some individuals, the primary reason for purchasing an electric vehicle (EV) is environmental. Electric vehicles produce around 30% fewer carbon emissions than their gasoline or diesel gasoline, even if the electricity used to power them is generated from fossil fuels.
Furthermore, as nations continue to transition to renewable energy sources, electric vehicles will become even more eco-friendly – potentially up to 90% less carbon-intensive than gasoline models.
Health impacts are also a significant consideration, particularly in densely populated urban areas where traffic-related air pollution is a growing concern. In the US alone, exhaust emissions from fossil fuel transport cause 53,000 premature deaths per year and have a particularly detrimental effect on children , the elderly, and low-income communities.
However, for most people, the most compelling argument for switching to electric vehicles will be financial savings. Here’s where electric cars offer significant advantages for cost-conscious consumers.
Saving money, saving the planet
Firstly, fully electric vehicles are exempt from road tax in the UK and are not subject to congestion or emission charges, which are currently in place in London and are being considered for many other cities and even certain highways in the coming years.
Electric vehicles are mechanically much simpler than internal combustion engine vehicles, resulting in service and maintenance costs that are approximately half those of a gasoline car. EVs also retain more of their value over time, with a strong second-hand market leading to a 20% increase in the value of a used Nissan Leaf over the past year.
However, the most significant factor is the cost of fuel. According to Go Ultra Low, a full electric charge could cost as little as £3, which translates to approximately 3p per mile, compared to about 13p per mile for the average gasoline car – more than four times as expensive. Over the lifespan of a car, this difference could save drivers tens of thousands of pounds.
Of course, electric vehicles currently have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional gasoline vehicles. However, with major manufacturers ramping up mass production, continuous advancements in battery technology, and government incentives and grants aimed at encouraging adoption, costs are expected to continue decreasing.
Destination in sight – but more miles to go
While the UK is behind some nations like Norway in the pace of the electric vehicle transition, the rate of sales growth is still remarkable. In 2013, there were fewer than 3,000 electric vehicles in the UK, but by the end of 2018, there were over 5,000 new electric vehicle registrations every month.
The number of charging points is keeping up with demand, nearly doubling to 20,000 points over the past two years. While infrastructure remains a concern for many drivers, the installation of EV chargers is now a significant aspect of power companies’ future strategies as they strive to provide a low-carbon connection gateway.
As electric vehicles continue to grow in number and the government continues to advocate for the “electric revolution,” an all-electric future appears increasingly feasible. However, there is still a long way to go.
Currently, electric vehicles account for less than 5% of the total number of vehicles on UK roads and an even smaller percentage globally. If societies and the planet are to realize the substantial environmental benefits of an electric future, governments and car manufacturers will need to maintain their commitment for many years to come.
Can ‘lightweighting’ combat range anxiety?
One of the primary challenges for electric vehicles is the distance they can travel on a single charge, prompting some manufacturers to reduce the weight of their cars to maximize battery life.
It appears to be a straightforward decision. The widespread adoption of electric vehicles could trigger a potential “positive tipping point” in efforts to mitigate global warming. However, many drivers are still choosing not to transition to this low-carbon technology. This decision means that while the uptake of electric vehicles has been swift, it has been slower than anticipated by some car manufacturers.
Many consumers are not transitioning to electric vehicles as fast as anticipated due to factors such as pricing, charging infrastructure, and concerns about the vehicle’s range, also known as “range anxiety”.
Drivers desire the ability to charge their electric vehicles in the same amount of time it takes to fill up a traditional fuel tank and they also want the same mileage per charge from the battery, according to Achyut Jajoo, senior vice president and general manager of manufacturing and automotive at Salesforce, which recently conducted a survey of 2,000 drivers regarding consumer preferences.
With current lithium-ion battery technology, electric vehicles have limitations on how far they can travel.
At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA this week, indications suggest that some auto manufacturers are seeking innovative ways to overcome these adoption challenges, particularly in the North American market. Their proposed solution is to make cars lighter.
Andrew Poliak, US chief technology officer of Panasonic Automotive, mentioned that “Every ounce of that weight reduction improves range.” Panasonic claims to have developed components, such as car speakers and audio systems, which weigh 30-60% less and consume 60% less power without compromising performance.
Panasonic showcased two-inch (5cm) speakers at CES that can produce sound equivalent to that of larger six-inch (15cm) speakers in the car’s door. This technology reduced significant weight in the doors, and Panasonic intends to further lighten the interior of vehicles using this concept.
At CES in 2023, the “lightweighting” concept from Panasonic is featured inside the Fisker Ocean One All-Electric SUV and the Infiniti QX80. Panasonic is also presenting a see-through concept vehicle, referred to as their device car, to demonstrate the various components the company is optimizing for car manufacturers.
Another prominent car manufacturer, Honda, is exploring a different crucial element in electric vehicles with the aim of reducing weight—the battery itself.
Honda has made significant investments in developing solid-state batteries, which are smaller and lighter than the conventional lithium-ion batteries commonly used in most electric vehicles. These batteries can also charge faster and are less susceptible to heat-related damage from fast-charging .
Chris Martin, a spokesperson for Honda, explained that not having to worry about the battery overheating means safety features may not be necessary, offering another method to reduce the vehicle’s weight.
In 2023, electric vehicles experienced a mixed year. While private user demand in the UK declined, company fleet orders increased. Some manufacturers cautioned that the rapid growth suggested by global predictions is likely to slow down. However, lighter-weight components could potentially help reduce the cost of these vehicles as well.
“I think it’s inevitable that as the technology advances, the capital costs for an electric vehicle will go down,” says Poliak.
The question that remains is whether consumers will believe that much lighter electric cars can truly cover long distances.
The biggest danger for electric cars may be their batteries.
The battery-operated electric vehicle is gaining traction, but faces a significant obstacle – the battery itself. What is necessary to make the environmentally friendly car become widely accepted?
If you visit wealthy neighborhoods in California such as La Jolla or tech-savvy ones like Mountain View, you will catch a glimpse of what is to come. Specifically, the future of cars. Every other car on the road is either a Tesla, Nissan Leaf, Toyota Prius, or something similar. These electric and hybrid vehicles seamlessly integrate with regular traffic, and many businesses, shopping centers, and homes have installed charging stations.
Electric car manufacturers are investing substantial amounts of money to make this the future that everyone will eventually experience. The question is how feasible it is to expand from small enclaves to an entire country.
In a different part of California, Elon Musk’s Tesla Motors recently proposed constructing a massive battery factory at an undisclosed location in the southwestern United States (which is a topic of much speculation). This so-called “Gigafactory” is projected to cost $5 billion and is planned to manufacture lithium-ion batteries for 500,000 cars by 2020 – exceeding the worldwide production in 2013.
However, will Tesla’s plan seem outdated by the time the factory becomes operational? Some experts think so. Phil Gott, the senior planning director at IHS Automotive, believes that Tesla’s ambitious plan is “likely premature”. New technologies are being developed that could provide better alternatives to address one of the major limitations for electric vehicles.
The issue these cars encounter is that batteries are large and heavy, allowing only a limited number to be installed. Take, for example, the Tesla Model S, which has a battery pack that is approximately two meters long and 1.2 meters wide, installed flat along the car’s floor. In the top-tier model, this provides a range of around 300 miles (482km) before requiring a recharge. The Nissan Leaf achieves a range of about 80 miles (128km). Additionally, recharging is a much slower process compared to refueling with petrol.
So, how can a superior battery be developed? Fundamentally, a battery comprises a positive and negative electrode, a separator, and an electrolyte. Various materials can serve as electrodes, allowing for different energy storage capacities based on different material combinations. However, a compromise is always necessary as battery life and safety characteristics change with the materials. While lithium-ion batteries are popular, they have been implicated in fires aboard planes, and their transport is restricted. Anything more reactive or unstable could pose a hazard. Finding the right combination, however, could yield significant benefits.
Recent advancements are part of a long series of improvements over the years. Initially, there were lead-acid batteries, which are still widely used in cars due to their size. Then came NiCad (nickel-cadmium) batteries, representing a new era of rechargeable batteries for portable technology such as laptops, phones, and remote control cars. Following that, NiMH (nickel metal hydride) batteries with about twice the capacity or energy density were developed. Presently, modern devices and electric cars rely on lithium-ion, or Li-ion, batteries.
Looking ahead, expect battery technology to have progressively more complex names; for instance, LiNiMnCo (lithium–nickel-manganese-cobalt-oxides). These materials have intricate properties, and efforts are ongoing to understand not only why these materials work, but also exactly how they work – the basic physics of the electrons moving within the materials.
“We are working on materials at Argonne that can potentially double the current energy density available for batteries,” says Daniel Abraham, a material scientist at Argonne National Laboratory, located outside Chicago in the US. “We conceive or imagine the types of materials we would like to work with, then we attempt to create the materials in the laboratory.”
Presently, the buzz is surrounding lithium-air, or more accurately, lithium-oxygen, and lithium-sulfur batteries. If they can be made to work under all conditions, lithium-oxygen batteries, in particular, would represent a tenfold improvement over current Li-ion batteries. “This is an area of great interest at the moment,” states Abraham.
Indeed, Volkswagen has hinted at exploring lithium-air batteries. The specific chemical/material combination they are using has not been disclosed as development work continues. The company’s engineers have not confirmed whether the technology has been tested in a car or if it is still at the ‘lab bench’ stage.
Despite the revolutionary potential of this technology, the technical challenges of ensuring a consistent, reliable, safe, and long-lasting Li-air battery are significant. So far, the electrodes have proven to be unstable.
Are you interested in electric cars?
The number of electric vehicles bought in the US is expected to increase substantially. However, concerns remain about the upcoming revolution, from drivers’ “range anxiety” to environmental worries about battery manufacturing.
The electric vehicle (EV) industry is thriving.
Globally, 14 percent of new cars sold in 2022 were electric, which is an increase from nine percent in 2021 and just five percent in 2020. Sales through the first quarter of 2023 were 25 percent higher than the same period last year.
The benefits of EVs are evident: they do not operate on environmentally taxing gasoline or ethanol, produce zero tailpipe emissions, run quietly, and require less maintenance compared to gas-powered vehicles. Some can even provide electricity for your home in an emergency.
However, the new wave of EVs also has its drawbacks. The batteries that power EVs necessitate intensive mining, and the electrical grids supplying power to cars are often dependent on fossil fuels.
Nevertheless, many, from the federal government to environmental organizations, assert that EVs represent the future.
Fred Lambert, the lead writer for Electrek, a news and commentary site covering electric transportation trends, states, “they’re so much more enjoyable to drive.”
Who is using EVs?
China leads global EV sales, accounting for 60 percent, with Europe and the US following as the second and third largest markets respectively. However, sales are also increasing in newer markets such as India, Thailand, and Indonesia.
EVs have had a more significant impact in some countries than others. For example, in Iceland, EVs make up 60 percent of new car sales, while in Norway, this figure exceeds 80 percent. In contrast, only 4.6 percent of new vehicle buyers in the US purchased EVs in 2022, although closer to 20 percent did so in California. Analysts have predicted that in a little over a decade, this figure could be closer to 45 percent.
How far can they travel?
Not everyone is convinced that EVs are suitable for them.
One commonly cited concern is “range anxiety” – the fear that an EV will run out of charge during a long journey. This anxiety is worsened by inadequate charging infrastructure – approximately 46,000 charging stations in the US, compared to about 150,000 gas stations – and some of these charging stations can be unreliable and prone to malfunctions.
However, Tesla has initiated the process of opening its superchargers, considered the most reliable, to other EV brands. The Biden Administration is also allocating $7.5 billion for a substantial expansion of a reliable American charging network.
The range of many EVs has also increased: the Lucid Air claims a range of 500 miles, while several other options are available with ranges well in excess of 300 miles.
Lambert successfully drove a Tesla Model 3 Performance on a road trip from Montreal to New Orleans.
“I had no problem, never experienced any range anxiety at all, and that was almost 2,500 miles,” he says.
Most people, he notes, do not need to travel that far; the average US commute is approximately 30 miles per day.
Additionally, Jim Motavalli, auto columnist for Barron’s, adds, “when people buy EVs, they’ll find that 85 percent of their charging is at home anyway. You’re not actually going to need or want to use public chargers most of the time.”
Do EVs have an environmental impact?
Some studies have indicated that manufacturing their batteries and constructing the cars themselves can generate more greenhouse gas emissions than a traditional gas-powered vehicle.
Battery production alone can contribute to as much as 60 percent of the total carbon emissions in an EV’s production. However, the majority of carbon emissions produced by traditional vehicles over their lifetimes are due to the fuel they consume; once they have been sold, a gas-powered car’s carbon footprint quickly surpasses that of an electric vehicle.
Electric vehicles also only achieve their full sustainable potential when the electricity powering them comes from renewable energy. In most areas, the electricity used to charge vehicles is generated at least partially by coal or gas.
Moreover, there are genuine concerns about the environmental and human impacts of mining components such as lithium for EV batteries.
Enhancements in mining techniques and battery production could alleviate these concerns, as well as the development and increased use of new batteries that have longer lifespans and hold more charge. Additionally, Lambert argues that the EV battery recycling industry has the potential to grow in the coming years, and new cars could be manufactured with recycled metals.
Concerns have been raised about the excessive number of vehicles on the road.
An additional critique is that the push to replace traditional cars with electric vehicles (EVs) does not acknowledge the issue of too many cars, roads, highways, and suburban sprawl. Even the most enthusiastic supporters of electric vehicles tend to agree with this argument.
Motavalli points out that unfortunately, electric vehicles do not solve the problem of traffic congestion.
Writer Noah Smith suggests that transitioning to electric vehicles and reducing sprawl can happen concurrently. He argues that besides making suburbs denser through changes in housing policy and the development of commuter rail, we should leverage the electric vehicle revolution to introduce electrified buses, e-bikes , and other alternative transportation modes to make suburbs more accessible.
Smith also notes that even with more transportation options, there will still be a significant number of cars on the roads. He highlights that car ownership remains high even in densely populated nations with extensive mass transit systems such as Japan and the Netherlands. Switching from gasoline -powered vehicles to electric transport not only makes sense, but it is inevitable.
According to Lambert, encouraging people to test drive an electric vehicle and analyze the cost-effectiveness and logic will inevitably lead them to choose electric vehicles.
Lithium batteries are crucial for powering various devices. They rely on the lithium found in the Salar de Uyuni, a salt flat in the Lithium Triangle in Southwestern Bolivia.
The Salar de Uyuni holds the largest reserves of lithium globally, which are used in lithium-ion batteries powering electronic devices and electric vehicles.
Lithium-ion batteries, rechargeable and utilized in a wide range of devices such as electric vehicles, smartphones, laptops, and electric toothbrushes, offer several advantages that make them the leading choice in the market over other alternatives.
A report in Nature projected that the market for lithium-ion batteries would grow from $30 billion in 2017 to $100 billion in 2025.
Lithium-ion batteries are essential for electric vehicles like Teslas. They are known for being low maintenance and for their high energy density and voltage, which enables the storage of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power.
Transportation systems analyst Linda Gaines at the Argonne National Laboratory explains that the main drive for using lithium-ion batteries is to power electric vehicles and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. She also points out that producing these vehicles and especially the batteries requires a substantial amount of energy and resources.
Despite concerns about the environmental cost, Gaines argues that given the emissions from the transportation sector, the use of these batteries is justified.
However, there are concerns about the environmental impact of lithium-ion batteries. Despite facilitating renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions, the process of obtaining lithium through mining has negative consequences for the environment.
The question remains: how can we justify the environmental destruction and contamination caused by mining in exchange for the minerals that support the green economy?
Due to its small atomic weight and radius, lithium enables batteries to have a high voltage and charge storage per unit mass and volume.
The Department of Energy explains that while discharging and providing electric current, the anode releases lithium ions to the cathode, generating a flow of electrons. When plugging in the device, the opposite happens: lithium ions are released by the cathode and received by the anode .
One method of lithium extraction is brine extraction, which involves drilling into an underground brine deposit and pumping the saltwater to the surface. The brine is then sent to evaporation ponds where the water content evaporates, leaving a lithium concentrate that is extracted.
However, reports from the Lithium Triangle about the adverse environmental impact of mining are serious.
Euronew.com states that the process of extracting lithium through evaporation ponds requires a large amount of water—approximately 21 million liters per day.
In extremely dry regions of South America where mining takes place, the limited water supply is redirected from local communities to mining operations, leading to significant pollution from sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide, as well as water scarcity issues.
As per the Natural Resources Defense Council, community members argue that the depletion of water levels in wells, lagoons, groundwater, and wetlands has had adverse effects on their agricultural and pastoral practices, and they have witnessed an increased mortality rate of flamingos and camelids due to dust pollution resulting from mining activities.
Are lithium batteries secure?
Lithium batteries are generally considered safe for individuals and households, functioning properly as long as there are no defects. While such failures are rare, lithium-ion batteries have been known to catch fire. Zheng Chen, a nanotechnology professor at the University of California San Diego, cites an incident where a cell phone caught fire during a flight. There have also been instances of Tesla vehicles catching fire. Additionally, lithium batteries at an energy storage station in Monterey, California, have experienced combustion.
During a battery fire, heat, pressure, and toxic gases are released through evaporation. When combined with wind, these gases can spread into nearby communities where people reside.
“This can be a concern if there is not a good plan in place to mitigate these systems.
There have been a few instances where electric vehicles have caught fire in garages. While these occurrences are uncommon, they have happened,” Chen states.
Chen remains unconvinced that all risks can be eliminated. “Mechanical damage can occur even when unexpected.”
To reduce this risk, The Occupational Safety and Health Administration advises consumers to “remove lithium-powered devices and batteries from the charger once they are fully charged and store lithium batteries and devices in dry, cool locations.” Additionally, consumers should “examine the batteries for any signs of damage, and if found, remove them from any area containing flammable materials.”
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