LEC Team, Author at Learn Electric Cars

Kia EV8 Could Replace The Iconic Stinger In Electric Avatar

The iconic performance sedan from Kia is about to be electrified to carry on offering the thrill associated with the Stinger moniker. The upcoming Kia EV8 is most likely to be the electric version of the popular Stinger. Codenamed GT1, the electric sedan could be called EV8, in line with the nomenclature the Korean auto giant is adopting for its electric vehicles. At present, the EV6 and EV9 are on sale in various markets across the globe. Hence, EV8 will position itself for the performance enthusiasts. There are numerous details available for the EV8 on Korean Car Blog. Let us glance through this to know what to expect from the electric Stinger. You might also like: Hyundai Plans To Launch A Mini Electric SUV And Electric Van Kia EV8 Stinger Electric – Specs & Platform A few leaked documents have pretty valuable information regarding the new platform on which the EV8 will be based in addition to the kind of battery and electric motor setup it will utilize. Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) will showcase a new platform called eM. It will be the successor to the existing E-GMP available with pure EVs from HMG (including Hyundai, Kia and Genesis). In terms of powertrain options, Kia EV8 will have something to suit the need of every buyer. As per the leaked document, the Kia Stinger Electric could boast the biggest battery in any Kia car at 113.2 kWh. For reference, EV9 currently gets powers from a 99.8 kWh battery pack. Hence, we could expect the EV8 to boast a range of around 700-800 km as per WLTP (435-497 mi). This battery pack will power either a single motor (RWD) making 160 kW (218 hp), a dual-motor (AWD) generating 320 kW (435 hp) [160 kW front + 160 kW rear] or a performance-focused GT trim with a dual-motor (AWD) belting out a whopping 450 kW (612 hp) [200 kW front + 250 kW rear]. We might see the launch by the end of 2025 or beginning of 2026. Production will occur at Kia’s Hwaseong Plant 3 in South Korea. Specs Kia EV8 Battery 113.2 kWh Power (RWD) 160 kW (218 hp) Power (AWD) 320 kW (435 hp) [160 kW front + 160 kW rear] Power (AWD – GT) 450 kW (612 hp) [200 kW front + 250 kW rear] Range 700 – 800 km (435-497 mi) Platform eM Specifications You might also like: Rivian R1T Modified For Off-Road w/ 38-inch Tires, 350 mi Range Learn Electric Cars Says With legacy automakers transitioning into electrification vehemently, it is evident that we are about to experience almost every kind of vehicle with an electric heart. The industry is focusing on mass-market and efficient EVs to offer something attractive to most new car buyers. But there will always be that niche set of customers who want spirited performance from their cars. In the electric realm, products like EV8 could cater to those people. Hence, it would be interesting to see how well driving lovers embrace such EVs.

Tesla Cybertruck vs Porsche 911 Turbo S Drag Race – Guess Who Wins

9 Comments / Featured / By LEC Team

We have seen the viral video of the Tesla Cybertruck drag racing a regular Porsche 911 carrying a Porsche 911 in its cargo. Well, things are a bit more ‘comparable’ this time around! This drag race competition between a Tesla Cybertruck and Porsche 911 Turbo S is intriguing. Drag races are common among automobile content creators around the globe. In essence, these compare the real-life acceleration of vehicles in a straight line. However, we won’t recommend our readers to try them. These content creators (well, most of them) exercise safety precautions to ensure the health of their cars, as well as everyone around. Therefore, please refrain from performing such stunts on your own. For now, let us check out who comes out on top on this occasion. You might also like: Rivian R1T Modified For Off-Road w/ 38-inch Tires, 350 mi Range Tesla Cybertruck vs Porsche 911 Turbo S Drag Race This exhilarating competition has been conducted and documented by Throttle House on YouTube. The duo is on a drag strip with these special automobiles. On one hand, the Cycbertruck, in the Cyberbeast mode, is one of the quickest and the most capable electric trucks on the planet. On the other, the Porsche 911 Turbo S is a benchmark when it comes to hard-accelerating sportscars. Hence, a race between these two would excite any automobile aficionado in the world. On the count of three, both drivers press the accelerator as hard as they could. At the launch, it looked like the 911 lagged slightly as the Cybertruck zoomed past it. However, as the speeds got higher, the Porsche was getting into its own. In fact, that is when the electric pickup truck encountered massive drag due to its size despite the company claiming its aerodynamic efficiency. As a result, the German performance car was able to overtake the American EV and emerge victorious quite convincingly. At high speeds, the electric pickup truck just stands no chance. Thereafter, the duo also decided to conduct a rolling acceleration test. It followed the same trajectory as the regular drag race. The EV took the lead briefly until the drag resistance created an issue. That is when the Porsche overtook it yet again. Just like before, the 911 Turbo S emerged as the undisputed winner of this competition. In any case, credit must be given to the colossal Cybertruck for keeping up with one of the fastest vehicles in the world for such a long time. You might also like: Wheel Cover Of Tesla Cybertruck Has A Unique Problem Specs Comparison The Tesla Cybertruck in this race was in its top-of-the-line iteration with a tri-motor setup generating a mammoth 845 hp (630 kW) of peak power. The wheel torque is a whopping 10,296 lb ft (13,969 Nm). It weighs 6,843 lbs (3,104 kg). On the other hand, the Porsche 911 Turbo S has a 3.7-liter twin-turbo flat-six mill which churns out a colossal 640 hp (478 kW) and 590 lb ft (800 Nm) of peak power and torque. The sportscar weighs in at 3,616 lbs (1,640 kg). Specs Comparison Tesla Cybertruck Porsche 911 Turbo S Engine Tri-Motor AWD 3.7L twin-turbo flat-six AWD Power 845 hp (630 kW) 640 hp (478 kW) Torque 10,296 lb ft (13,969 Nm) – Wheel 590 lb ft (800 Nm) Weight 6,843 lbs (3,104 kg) 3,616 lbs (1,640 kg) Specs You might also like: MWM Spartan EV 2.0 Offers G-Wagon-Like Capabilities Based On Indian Force Gurkha Learn Electric Cars Says Now, while drag races can be a bit subjective every time, this one seemed reasonable. The fact that the front fascia of the Cybertruck is flat and large, is bound to pose a problem to the aerodynamic efficiency at high speeds. Still, to compete with a drag monster like the Porsche 911 Turbo S is no mean feat. Hence, even though the Cybertruck lost this race, it definitely won the respect of everyone watching. Finally, we would again like to caution our readers to never attempt such drag races with your own cars. Stay safe and prioritize your safety!

Hyundai Plans To Launch A Mini Electric SUV And Electric Van

9 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The Korean automaker is planning to expand its global electric portfolio with diversified EVs. Hyundai is planning to launch an electric mini SUV and Van in the coming months to expand its global footprint. The former is a Casper-sized electric SUV which would become the entry-level EV from Hyundai across many international markets. One of the biggest challenges with the mass adoption of electric cars is their initial prices. Hence, affordable EVs are in huge demand and will also create further demand. On the other hand, it will also launch an electric van for Iveco. It will be based on the global eLCV platform. This would cater to the commercial buyers all across the world. In fact, Hyundai will export it to many international markets. Iveco is a huge player in commercial van segment. This is an unequivocal indication that the Korean car marque wants to leave no stone unturned and offer electrification in all segments of the market and its portfolio. You might also like: Hyundai To Launch New EV Brand In China; Plans 5 EVs In 3 Years Hyundai Plans Electric Mini SUV And Van In its home market, Hyundai already sells Casper as a mini SUV. It is for those who are looking for a compact urban SUV. But it is available with an IC engine. As far as its electric counterpart is concerned, Hyundai could offer it with a length of around 3.9 m (153.5 in). That will be positioned under its current entry level EV, KONA electric. It will focus on being affordable rather than an EV with great performance and long range. Therefore, expect a humble range of around 200-300 km (125 mi to 187 mi) and LFP chemistry. On the other hand, Hyundai will develop the chassis for its upcoming electric van which will be based on the Global Electric Light Commercial Vehicle platform. This platform is capable of carrying loads upto 2.5 tons to 3.5 tons. The low-floor construction makes it ideal for loading and unloading. Iveco will customize the electric vans and distribute them via its network by September this year at the IAA Transportation. It will rival the likes of Ford E-Transit. You might also like: Hyundai Unveils ‘Active Air Skirt’ Tech To Increase EV Range And Power Learn Electric Cars Says Hyundai Motor is clearly aiming to establish its name among the pioneers of electric mobility. In fact, it also sells its Nexo Hydrogen car in the US. In addition, there are tons of hybrid models in its lineup for various markets. We don’t need to tell you about the IONIQ series. It has already gathered monumental laurels from the customers and critics alike. Going forward, Hyundai wants to offer EVs in every segment in most markets. We shall have to wait to see how that pans out.

Modified Rivian R1T Front Three Quarters

Rivian R1T Modified For Off-Road w/ 38-inch Tires, 350 mi Range

5 Comments / Featured / By LEC Team

As the popularity and demand for electric pickup trucks surge, aftermarket car modification houses are coming up with enticing ways to customize them thoroughly. The Rivian R1T electric pickup truck has been aptly modified for off-road use by a prominent truck specialist. This reminds us of all sorts of modified diesel pickup trucks in the past. We are at a point where there are enough electric pickup trucks on the roads that their owners are looking for ways to customize them as per their needs. Rivian is a major American EV startup which develops electric pickups and SUVs for relatively hardcore applications. Let us glance at all the details on the R1T in this blog post. You might also like: Nyobolt Battery Can Charge Fully In Just 6 Minutes Rivian R1T Modified For Off-Road The visuals of this uniquely altered Rivian truck stem from South Florida Jeeps on YouTube. They capture the modified electric pickup truck in real-world conditions. It has been put to the test through challenging off-roading trails including water bodies. The Rivian looks quite unfazed by anything in its path. Having a look at the website of this car shop, we get to know the details of the kind of mods this monster truck gets. You might also like: MWM Spartan EV 2.0 Offers G-Wagon-Like Capabilities Based On Indian Force Gurkha Details Of Modifications The design house is calling this Rivian Apocalypse Nirvana. There are a bunch of aesthetic, as well as performance enhancements. These include: You might also like: How Is Formula E Helping Legacy Carmakers Build Better EV Technologies Learn Electric Cars Says Rivian is slowly but surely grabbing significant market share in the face of fierce competition. It is a worthy alternative to the likes of the Ford Lightning F-150, Chevy Silverado EV and the recently launched Tesla Cybertruck. It offers some distinct USPs including the price point to attract new customers. As the EV revolution intensifies, we will see more and more electric pickup trucks in the market. With the assurance of such aftermarket modifications houses for EVs as well, mass adoption looks more likely than ever.

Nyobolt Battery Can Charge Fully In Just 6 Minutes

8 Comments / Battery / By LEC Team

With each passing year, we witness an immense advancement in EV battery technology and this is a prime example of it. UK-based Nyobolt has come up with an EV battery which can charge fully in a mere 6 minutes. This ultra-fast-charging breakthrough can transform the electric vehicle industry. Such charging speeds are significantly faster than any other technology out there. With lightning-fast charging times, EVs can do with smaller battery packs, in turn, reducing the weight and rare materials used to create those batteries. That is the premise on which this technology is based. You may also like: How Is Formula E Helping Legacy Carmakers Build Better EV Technologies Nyobolt Battery Can Charge Fully In 6 Mins These days, we are encountering large EVs with massive batteries to generate appropriate performance and range. To tackle that, efficiency is at the top of most carmakers’ priority list. That is where the Nyobolt battery comes into the picture. This is a 35 kWh battery pack which offers a range of upto 250 km. It may seem low but if will take just 6 minutes to charge this battery using a 350 kW DC fast charger, EV owners won’t feel range anxiety. Nyobolt has designed this battery in collaboration with design and engineering business, CALLUM and renowned designer Julian Thomson. The latter was inspired by his design of the Lotus Elise. It is one of the most nimble and lightweight electric sportscars around. The Nyobolt battery has been tested for over 2,500 fast charge cycles (enough to cover over half a million kilometres) without significant loss in performance. Nyobolt batteries can also be made for large vehicles like buses or trucks once 1 MW chargers become available. Hence, the brand is future-ready. It will go into production from early 2024. You may also like: Silicone Anode Holds Immense Potential For Next-Gen EV Batteries Sai Shivareddy, CEO at Nyobolt, said, “Unlocking the challenges faced by electric vehicle designers has been key to the development of our breakthrough fast-charging batteries. Previously, enabling a light weight fast-charging vehicle was not possible without compromising its lifetime and so people have been relying on costly and large battery packs in the vehicle. With our unique technology we have achieved a six-minute charge car, and developed smaller battery packs that can deliver more power and charge in less time. “Our partnership with CALLUM shows how adoption of system-level technology innovations can transform the future of electric vehicles and increase accessibility of EVs, including to the 40% of UK households who can’t charge their vehicle at home overnight.” You may also like: How Do Heat Pumps Function In EVs? Learn Electric Cars Says We are perennially excited to discuss new EV technologies including electric car models and battery development. It is becoming undeniable that the future of mobility is electric. While it will take a significant time for mass adoption across the globe, the revolution is most certainly underway. With constant advancements in EV technologies, we will reach a point where range anxiety will be a thing of the past. Until then, we shall keep reporting new techniques to our readers.

Hyundai To Launch New EV Brand In China; Plans 5 EVs In 3 Years

6 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The South Korean auto giant is prepping a new electric car brand to grab a significant chunk of the burgeoning Chinese EV market. Hyundai is planning a new EV brand in collaboration with Beijing Motor Corp (BAIC) just for China. The Korean auto maker has been reeling under the aftermath of dwindling sales in the largest EV market in the world, China. For reference, back in 2017, Hyundai sold 1.6 million cars in China which was around 7% market share. This number now stands at just 250,000 units, or less than 1%. In fact, Hyundai even sold its Chongqing factory for $225 million after sustaining losses worth $598 million in 2022, as per The Korea Economic Daily. Almost on the brink of exiting the Chinese market, Hyundai has decided to deploy a different strategy. It will launch 5 new China-specific EVs within the next 3 years under the joint venture with BAIC. These will bear different components and design philosophy than the acclaimed IONIQ series from Hyundai. You might also like: MWM Spartan EV 2.0 Offers G-Wagon-Like Capabilities Based On Indian Force Gurkha New Hyundai EV Brand For China Interestingly, the partnership between Hyundai and BAIC dates back to 2002. At the time, the two companies established a JV to set up a car plant in China. Those cars were supposed to be produced under BAIC’s Arcfox brand. However, those plans fell through. Now, the two companies will adopt a new strategy to resurrect Hyundai in China with the project which is codenamed OE RE. As per the same report, Hyundai Motor Group’s Executive Chairman, Chung Euisun, wishes to grab a significant chunk of the largest EV market on the planet. He commissioned this project after riding the Zeekr EV. Zeekr is a luxury EV car marque under the Geely Holding Group. He asked Hyundai employees to learn from the success of Chinese players. Now, we know that cost plays the deciding role in the success of cars in China. As a result, Hyundai plans to equip its new EVs in China with LFP batteries. That will ensure a competitive price range to rival the Chinese EVs. You might also like: How Is Formula E Helping Legacy Carmakers Build Better EV Technologies? Learn Electric Cars Says Hyundai is a prominent global automotive player. Its EVs like IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 are instant hits across many international markets. Hyundai Motor Group is the parent company to Kia and Genesis. Even their EVs have achieved immense success in many parts of the world. That is what makes it so surprising that the South Korean carmaker is unable to crack the code for the Chinese market. Hopefully, with this new strategy of launching relatively affordable EVs in partnership with BAIC, it will be able to revive its depleting sales. We shall keep an eye out for further developments in this case.

Wheel Cover Of Tesla Cybertruck Has A Unique Problem

6 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Ever since the launch of the Tesla Cybertruck, the internet has been overwhelmed by all sorts of information about the wildly anticipated electric pickup truck. The wheel cover of the tire of the Tesla Cybertruck is posing an issue for the owners. Cybertruck is the futuristic electric pickup truck from the American EV giant. It was in development for over 4 years. First showcased in 2019, the Cybertruck was launched in December 2023. All this while, people who had reserved it since 2019 were evidently disappointed and frustrated. Now that it is finally here, Cybertruck owners are witnessing weird issues with it. You might also like: Is Edison Future (EF1-T) A Worthy Competitor To Tesla Cybertruck Wheel Cover Issue With Tesla Cybertruck We came across this video from T Sportline – Tesla Upgrades & Accessories on YouTube. The host has the Cybertruck with the stock wheel covers. These are aero wheel covers which aid the aerodynamic efficiency of the EV. You must have seen modern EVs with a slightly unusual tire design. That is because they are designed to maximize aerodynamic efficiency and reduce drag when the vehicle moves. Efficiency is ultra-crucial in maximizing the range of electric cars. Tesla offers these wheel covers with the Cybertruck. One could simply stick them on or remove them by hand. The issue is that the rubber component of these wheel covers comes in contact with the sidewall of the tire when it is in contact with the surface. Due to the weight of the EV, tires expand at the point where they touch the ground. That is common to all cars. However, because of this bulge, the sidewall of the tire is getting worn out a bit by brushing against this rubber element of the wheel cover. For instance, this particular Cybertruck has been driven for a couple of thousand miles. There is minor wear on the sidewall. Now, if the tire is getting worn out in just a couple of thousand miles, we can expect the situation to get exacerbated after tens of thousands of miles (which is the average life of tires). Hence, over time, it could become a huge problem. You might also like: Which EVs Use Tesla Superchargers? Tesla Offers New Wheel Covers Since the component which is coming in contact with the tire is already made out of rubber instead of plastic, we reckon that Tesla might have encountered this issue during testing already. In any case, now that the owners are reporting this issue, Tesla will officially equip the next lot of Cybertrucks with new wheel covers. Therefore, you don’t have too much to worry about. You might also like: Tesla Cybertruck Issues With CCS Adapter, Slow Charging Learn Electric Cars Says Now we understand that this might not be such a huge problem, still to have this on a $100,000 vehicle is not ideal. The image of Tesla was already taking a hit after recurring delays for the launch of the Cybertruck. But now that the truck is here in the flesh, such issues can cause the brand image to deteriorate. With immense competition from various new and established players from across the globe, Tesla wouldn’t want anything like this. That is the reason why it is acting fast to remedy this. Until then, we suggest you simply remove these wheel covers and get the new ones as soon as they become available.

MWM Spartan EV 2.0 Exterior Front Three Quarters

MWM Spartan EV 2.0 Offers G-Wagon-Like Capabilities Based On Indian Force Gurkha

8 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The Indian hardcore off-roader Force Gurkha lends multiple components to the Spartan EV from the Czech MW Motors. The MWM Spartan EV 2.0 possesses Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon like capabilities on the foundation of the Force Gurkha from India. It is fascinating to experience how carmakers halfway across the world are able to borrow and share components and technologies to develop capable vehicles. Force Gurkha is an established affordable and rugged off-roader with a diesel mill. The Czech startup borrows mechanical components from the Gurkha, while the battery is sourced from China. Note that the original inspiration stems from a Russian military 4×4 UAZ Hunter from 1971. You might also like: Munro MK_1 is an Electric SUV with Traces of Land Rover Defender MWM Spartan EV 2.0 With G-Wagon Traits – Specs The MWM Spartan EV 2.0 possesses a 57.4 kWh (usable) battery pack which can power a single or dual-motor setup for a 2WD or 4WD configuration. These electric motors are good for a decent 174 hp (130 kW) and a colossal 1,075 Nm (793 lb-ft) of peak power and torque. It contains manually locking differentials and a 2-speed transmission with a high and low-range transfer case. The certified range is a decent 262 km (163 mi) and the top speed is limited to 145 km/h. It takes 36 mins to charge the battery from 20% to 80% using a 90 kW DC fast charger. It has a kerb weight of 2,350 kg, a load capacity of 1,025 kg and a towing capacity of 3,000 kg. There are 16-inch wheels with 245/70 profile tyres. Its cargo capacity is a cavernous 1,718 litre with a ground clearance of 200 mm+. Specs MWM Spartan EV 2.0 Battery 57.4 kWh (usable) Drivetrain 2WD / 4WD Range 262 km (163 mi) Power 174 hp (130 kW) Torque 1,075 Nm (793 lb-ft) Charging (90 kW DC) 36 mins (20-80%) Kerb Weight 2,350 kg (5,180 lbs) Load Capacity 1,025 kg (2,260 lbs) Towing Capacity 3,000 kg (6,614 lbs) Ground Clearance 200 mm+ Specs You might also like: Mercedes Electric G-Wagon (EQG) to Get Silicon Battery Material MWM Spartan EV 2.0 With G-Wagon Traits – Dimensions Even though the Spartan EV 2.0 is based on the Indian Force Gurkha, it is slightly longer than the Gurkha. It measures 4,116 mm in length, 1,812 mm in width, 2,075 mm in height and has a wheelbase of 2,400 mm. Dimensions MWM Spartan EV 2.0 Length 4,116 mm (162 in.) Width 1,812 mm (71 in.) Height 2,075 mm (82 in) Wheelbase 2,400 mm (94 in) Dimensions You might also like: How EVs Perform 360-Degree Turns On The Spot? Design and Features On the outside, the Spartan EV 2.0 bears a sturdy silhouette with retro round LED headlamps with DRLs, a clamshell bonnet, a rugged bumper, large wheel arches, side steps to enhance the ingress and egress characteristics, a roof luggage carrier, and boxy appearance. In terms of the features, there is a tyre pressure monitoring system, hill descent control, Thatcham-approved CAT II immobiliser, electric windows, AC, infotainment system, regenerative braking, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, dual USB 5V port (1A and 2.1A), V2L, and more. You might also like: How Is Formula E Helping Legacy Carmakers Build Better EV Technologies Learn Electric Cars Says With a starting price of £49,995 ($63,700), the Spartan EV 2.0 costs less than half the cost of the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon. Being a Czech product, it is on sale in Europe at the moment. Still, for automobile enthusiasts like ourselves, it is intriguing to stay updated on the latest happenings from around the globe. Furthermore, vehicles like these offer new carmakers an opportunity to offer something truly impressive at a much more affordable price point in comparison to legacy carmakers. In any case, we are glad to keep reporting about such new vehicles.

How Is Formula E Helping Legacy Carmakers Build Better EV Technologies

10 Comments / Featured / By LEC Team

Formula E allows established carmakers to use it as a testing lab for new technologies to make EVs more efficient and powerful, and offer incredible regenerative braking abilities. The Formula E racing acts as a testing lab for legacy carmakers to test their innovative EV technologies. Essentially, the budget that car marques allocate for R&D and testing, can be alternately used to devise technologies for Formula E cars. The races are the actual testing grounds. In fact, it is a bigger stamp of validation than any other road testing. Hence, participating in Formula E could be critical for carmakers to come up with effective ways to create methods to address the concerns in electric cars. You might also like: Stellantis Invests In Affordable Sodium-Ion Battery Technology Formula E EV Technologies Note that Formula E is the first sport in the world which has been Net Zero Carbon since the beginning. As a part of Formula E, there are 16 races across 10 cities in 4 continents. The car used for this race is called GEN3. It is the most efficient race car. The GEN3 car is designed for use in the FIA Formula E Championship. Formula E cars commence each race with a battery capacity of only 60%, necessitating the generation of the remaining capacity through braking. This process aids in the development of more efficient motors, inverters, and software, contributing to enhanced performance and extended range. Therefore, car companies need to develop insanely efficient regenerative braking systems to be able to recoup enough energy to complete the race. That is as challenging an environment as it gets. You might also like: How Do Heat Pumps Function In EVs? Which Carmakers Are A Part Of Formula E? There are some top names on this list including: A few prominent German carmakers have taken the alternative route of regular R&D. For instance, BMW quit Formula E back in 2021. Similarly, Mercedes-Benz is focusing its sustainability efforts on its F1 team. Therefore, we must understand that Formula E is not the only way. Also, it becomes clear that carmakers are adopting multiple techniques to arrive at the same destination. You might also like: Hyundai Unveils ‘Active Air Skirt’ Tech To Increase EV Range And Power Learn Electric Cars Says Car manufacturers are actively pursuing software innovation to develop superior mass-production electric vehicles with improved performance, extended range, and increased efficiency. The recent breakthroughs in motorsports hold significant potential for efficient integration into mainstream models, ultimately contributing to a potential reduction in EV prices for consumers. Formula E founder Alejandro Agag notes that manufacturers view Formula E as a testing ground for technologies, particularly emphasizing the advancements made in fast charging by participating teams.

Silicone Anode Holds Immense Potential For Next-Gen EV Batteries

8 Comments / Battery / By LEC Team

With relentless innovation in the electric mobility space, we keep encountering new tech every day to tackle the common issues with EVs. The technology pertaining to using Silicone anode for EV batteries has been talked about for quite some time now. Admittedly, there have been a handful of new methods being experimented with, to boost the mass adoption of EVs. In a bid to achieve that, the existing ubiquitous challenges need addressing. These include range anxiety, charging times, battery longevity, and abundant availability of charging infrastructure. The first three things need innovation on the part of carmakers, while the last of these needs cooperation from governments and policymakers. All these aspects need to move together to accomplish the monumental task of transitioning to electric cars. The most prominent and feasible technology in recent times is the use of Silicon anode. Let us glance through the salient features, pros and cons of this technique. You might also like: Stellantis Invests In Affordable Sodium-Ion Battery Technology Silicone Anode In EV Batteries The batteries used in EVs at the moment contain graphite-based anode. Its job is to transfer Lithium ions between the cathode and anode during charging and discharging cycles. However, the issue with graphite is that 90% of the world’s total supply comes from China alone. This includes mining, extracting and refining. Hence, there is too much dependence on a single nation. That is understandably a problem. Additionally, silicone can hold upto 10 times more Lithium than graphite. Now it doesn’t translate to 10 times more efficiency because there are other factors involved. Still, Silicone will enhance the capabilities of Lithium-ion batteries significantly. Hence, the advantages of using a Silicone anode are evident and direct. You might also like: Toyota to Launch Solid-State Battery by 2027 – Here’s The Problem Cons Of Silicone Anode Even though there are massive pros to using it, there are a few downsides too. Due to a difficult combination of battery pulverization and buildup of wasteful byproducts, the carmakers can only integrate 5-10% silicone into anodes. During the process of constant expansion and contraction, the EV battery’s solid-electrolyte-interphase (SEI) layer becomes brittle and causes it to decay at a faster rate. Hence, the life cycle of the battery is reduced. You might also like: Potential and Challenges of Electric Vehicle Battery Swapping Learn Electric Cars Says Lithium-ion batteries, featuring anodes infused with silicon nanoparticles, effectively alleviate the primary concerns that consumers have regarding the adoption of electric vehicles. These batteries extend the vehicle’s range significantly on a single charge, enable faster charging times, and boast a longer lifespan compared to the prevailing industry norm. This means that ordinary consumers can enjoy extended travel distances, faster recharge rates, and prolonged battery life, thus avoiding the inconvenience and expense of frequent battery replacements every few years. Let us see if this technology achieves large-scale commercialization to become the norm in times to come.

LEC Team

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