The next major EV battery technology advancement has long been considered solid-state cells. These batteries offer greater energy density, faster recharge times, and better safety than traditional batteries containing liquid electrolyte cells. They are considered the Holy Grail of EV batteries, with companies worldwide spending billions of dollars and over 15 years on research and development to develop a viable solid-state battery. Research has suggested that a pack containing a solid-state battery could improve the range of an electric vehicle by almost 70 percent and reduce the DC fast-charging time by 10 to 80 percent, from 30 minutes to 10.
Solid-state batteries could change how electric vehicles are manufactured and driven, and there will likely be even more advances in the next few years, but how exactly do these batteries work? Let's take a look.
Types of Solid-State Batteries
The term "solid-state" refers to using a solid material to keep the anode and cathode in a battery from touching each other. Today's batteries rely on a liquid electrolyte absorbed by the anode, cathode, and separator, making them all somewhat spongy. Most batteries only have enough liquid to moisten electrodes, so no excess liquid sloshes around.
Solid-state technology aims to reduce or eliminate the amount of liquid electrolyte in batteries. Some of these are lithium-polymer batteries that rely on a liquid electrolyte held in a polymerized gel. In contrast, others use ceramic or glass solid electrolytes that require high operating temperatures. Researchers have also explored the possibility of using lithium metal as a cathode with a solid-state separator, allowing for anode-free cells. This could eliminate the need for graphite, which is largely produced and exported from China. Lithium poses some safety risks as it is highly flammable and reacts violently with moisture, so any manufacturers relying on solid lithium would be under intense scrutiny to prove their batteries are safe.
Still, the research into solid-state battery technology is promising and will likely continue for some time. If all goes well, we could soon see more powerful, faster-charging batteries in our electric vehicles.
Contact Berkshire Hathaway Automotive Today
Even though solid-state EV batteries are a few years away, our dealerships still have an excellent selection of vehicles that could suit your needs. Contact Berkshire Hathaway Automotive today to see what we have to offer.