The primary cell used in electric vehicles (EVs) is the lithium-ion battery cell.
Lithium-Ion Batteries in EVs
Lithium-ion batteries have become the dominant choice for powering EVs due to their superior characteristics:
- High Energy Density: Lithium-ion batteries can store a significant amount of energy for their size and weight, which is essential for maximizing the driving range of EVs.
- Long Cycle Life: These batteries can undergo numerous charging and discharging cycles without significant degradation, ensuring longevity and reliability in EV applications.
- Originally Developed for Consumer Electronics: As the reference states, lithium-ion batteries were initially developed and commercialized for use in laptops and consumer electronics before being adapted for EVs.
Why Lithium-Ion?
While other battery technologies exist, lithium-ion's combination of high energy density and long cycle life makes it the best option for current EV technology. This allows EVs to have a practical driving range and a reasonable battery lifespan.
Battery Cell Characteristics
| Feature | Lithium-Ion Battery |
|---|---|
| Energy Density | High |
| Cycle Life | Long |
| Primary Application | Electric Vehicles (EVs) |
| Initial Use Case | Laptops and consumer electronics |
