British breakthrough may redefine electric car range limits
The range of electric cars is a key factor influencing their popularity. Recent studies suggest that the British may have developed a groundbreaking new method to enhance it. Will they succeed?
9:03 AM EDT, October 15, 2024
Electric cars are becoming more popular, but one of the most frequently raised issues is their limited range. In response to users' growing needs, manufacturers and scientists around the world are searching for ways to extend the distance electric cars can travel without needing a recharge. The British company Integrals Power is at the forefront of this endeavor.
Range in electric cars: what it depends on and how to increase it
The range of electric cars is a crucial aspect affecting the comfort and practicality of using such vehicles daily. Range primarily depends on battery capacity, but other factors also play a crucial role, such as aerodynamics, vehicle weight, driving style, and weather conditions. In cold temperatures, battery efficiency can decrease, causing the car to use more energy to heat the cabin.
The range can be increased by employing several simple driving techniques, such as avoiding sudden acceleration and braking, which allows for optimal energy use. It is also worthwhile to use energy recovery systems that convert kinetic energy into additional power for charging the battery. Modern battery technologies, including new generations of cells, are also contributing to extending the range of electric cars, offering increasingly higher efficiency and durability.
British innovation to increase range
In the race to maximize the range of electric cars, the British company Integrals Power has introduced an innovation that could transform this market segment. Their solution is based on next-generation lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) cathode materials. The breakthrough involved increasing the manganese content in the cathode material—from 50-70% to 80%. A higher manganese concentration allows cells to achieve greater capacity and efficiency.
The new cathode technology enables a capacity of 150 mAh/g at a voltage of 4.1V, which is 0.65V higher than traditional LFP (lithium iron phosphate) cells. This significant improvement can directly impact the range of electric cars, which is crucial for user interest in today's developing electromobility landscape. Using such batteries will increase the distance cars can travel and their lifespan, which is important from a cost-saving perspective.
