Large, resource-intensive lithium ion batteries powering emerging electric vehicle fleets are already straining global mineral supply chains. Nearly one in five cars sold worldwide last year was electric,
The article from Popular Science discusses the advancements in electric vehicle (EV) battery technology, focusing on how these batteries are designed to last longer than previously thought. It highlights that while early concerns about EV battery degradation were significant, recent studies and real-world data suggest that EV batteries can retain much of their capacity over many years. For instance, Tesla's data indicates that their batteries can last up to 300,000 to 500,000 miles with only a 12% degradation in capacity after 200,000 miles. The article also touches on the efforts by manufacturers to improve battery life through better materials, thermal management, and software updates that optimize battery usage. Additionally, it mentions the potential for second-life applications for EV batteries, where they can be repurposed for energy storage after their automotive life, further extending their utility and reducing waste. This shift in understanding and technology is helping to alleviate range anxiety and improve the economic case for electric vehicles.
Automotive & Transportation
