Building Better Batteries for Electric Vehicles

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Electric Vehicle Battery Design

From the July/August 2023 issue of Car and Driver.

Introduction

In recent years, electric vehicles (EVs) have gained significant attention as a sustainable transportation solution. The development of EV batteries plays a crucial role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined by the United Nations. This report explores the factors considered by battery engineers and the trade-offs made by vehicle teams in designing EV batteries that align with the SDGs.

Cell Chemistry

The choice of cell chemistry is a fundamental decision in EV battery design. Battery engineers must balance energy capacity, power delivery, cost, and volatility. Collaborations between cell suppliers and automakers, such as Tesla and Panasonic or GM and LG Energy Solution, are common for developing vehicle-specific applications. In the U.S., many EVs use lithium-ion cells known as NMCA cells, which contain a mix of nickel, manganese, cobalt, and aluminum with lithium. In China, the prevailing chemistry is lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP), which offers cost advantages and improved safety under extreme conditions.

Cell Format

Battery engineers must also decide on the shape or format of each cell. Tesla pioneered the use of small-format cylindrical cells, while other manufacturers opt for larger cells in pouch or prismatic formats. These cells are grouped into modules, which are then placed into a large rectangular container to form the battery pack. The new GMC Hummer pickups and SUVs, for example, utilize two 400-volt module groups in parallel that switch to an 800-volt series for fast-charging capabilities.

Cell and Pack Dimensions

Engineers face the challenge of maximizing energy capacity while minimizing battery pack dimensions. Standard sizes exist for cylindrical cells, but other formats are often specific to individual automakers. The design must also consider liquid-cooling channels, wiring connections, and module separation for safety. Most EVs with a range of 200 miles or more have underfloor battery packs that span from door to door and axle to axle. Additional capacity may be accommodated with a raised hump under the rear seat or recessed foot garages for improved legroom.

Capacity (Range)

The battery capacity offered in EVs is a topic of debate among battery engineers, vehicle product managers, and accountants. The goal is to provide an EV with sufficient range at an affordable price. A range of around 250 miles is considered the minimum to attract consumers, while GM suggests that 300 miles is the benchmark where range anxiety diminishes. However, actual range may vary from the EPA range posted on window-sticker labels.

Conclusion

The development of EV batteries has made significant progress in recent years, contributing to the achievement of SDGs. Battery engineers and vehicle teams carefully consider cell chemistry, format, dimensions, and capacity to optimize the performance and sustainability of EVs. As technology continues to advance, further improvements in battery efficiency and cost-effectiveness are expected, driving the transition towards a greener transportation future.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

   • Target 7.2: By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.
   • Indicator 7.2.1: Renewable energy share in the total final energy consumption.

2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

   • Target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes.
   • Indicator 9.4.1: CO2 emission per unit of value added.

3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
   • Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g., PM2.5) in cities.

Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:

• Target 7.2: Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.
• Target 9.4: Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes.
• Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

• Indicator 7.2.1: Renewable energy share in the total final energy consumption.
• Indicator 9.4.1: CO2 emission per unit of value added.
• Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g., PM2.5) in cities.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: caranddriver.com

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