Types of Electric Vehicle Batteries You Must Know

Batteries are the main component of electric vehicles (EVs), determining their performance, range, and energy efficiency. As technology advances, the automotive industry continues to innovate by developing various types of electric vehicle batteries that are more reliable, lightweight, and have a higher energy capacity. To learn more about these battery types, read the following explanation.

Types of Electric Vehicle Batteries

In general, there are several types of electric vehicle batteries. Below is a detailed explanation:

1. Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) Battery

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in electric cars due to their high energy density, lightweight design, and efficiency. They also have a long lifespan, but their production costs are high, rely on scarce raw materials, and pose an overheating risk if not properly managed.

2. Metal-Air Battery

Metal-air batteries have a higher energy density than Li-ion batteries because they use oxygen as the cathode. This makes them lighter and capable of storing more energy. However, this technology still faces challenges related to recharging, is prone to degradation, and is not yet commercially available for electric vehicles.

3. Lithium-Polymer (Li-Po) Battery

Lithium-polymer (Li-Po) batteries are a variation of Li-ion batteries that use a gel or solid polymer electrolyte, making them lighter and more flexible. Their advantages include being safer from leaks and providing high power output quickly. However, they have a shorter lifespan, are sensitive to high temperatures, and have high production costs.

4. Nickel-Iron (NiFe) Battery

Nickel-iron (NiFe) batteries are known for their durability, stability, and environmental friendliness as they do not contain toxic materials. However, their energy density is low, charging efficiency is suboptimal, and they are relatively heavy, making them less suitable for electric vehicles.

5. Metal Alloy Battery

Metal alloy batteries use a special metal blend to enhance energy capacity and durability. Their energy density is higher than NiFe batteries, and they offer good stability. However, they are still under development, require improved charging efficiency, and have high production costs.

6. Glass Battery

Glass batteries are a new innovation that is safer, more durable, and charges faster than Li-ion batteries. However, this technology is still in development, has high production costs, and is not yet widely available in the market.

Comparison of Different Types of Electric Vehicle Batteries

To better understand the differences between each type of battery, refer to the comparison table below:

Challenges and Innovations in Electric Vehicle Batteries

Although electric vehicle battery technology continues to evolve, challenges such as high production costs, energy efficiency, and safety risks still need to be addressed. Battery recycling is also a major concern to prevent environmental impacts. Therefore, the development of solid-state batteries, sodium-based batteries, and more efficient recycling methods is being pursued to accelerate the adoption of environmentally friendly vehicles.

Understanding the different types of electric vehicle batteries is crucial for supporting the transition to green transportation. Each battery type has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on user needs. With technological advancements, batteries are expected to become more efficient, safe, and sustainable, accelerating the transformation of the automotive industry. INVI Indonesia offers green transportation solutions for a cleaner future. Find out more about our products here!