Li-ion Batteries for Electric Vehicles: Requirements, State of Art, Challenges and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Since the commercialization of Lithium ion batteries (LiBs), strong strides have been taken to enhance the performance (power and energy density, cycle life) while reducing manufacturing cost per kWh. With the push for adoption of electric vehicles worldwide, LiBs are the preferred choice for rechargeable energy storage systems (RESS). The performance and cost of electric vehicles (EVs) are driven by the research in battery technology. With the EVs presenting huge potential towards sustainable energy futures, driving down carbon emissions, improving air quality index (AQI) – a critical problem in world’s most metro cities and reducing dependency on oil and petroleum, government has taken strong strides in promoting EVs as a viable business opportunity. Government plans to phase out internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles over the next 10 to 30 years. Many OEMs have launched EV platforms and global EV sales totaling 2.3 million in 2019. Albeit government subsidies and regulations, EV market captures a small share (~2%) in the global automotive market. Thus, to prove as a feasible replacement for ICE vehicles, rapid advancements are required in battery technology. This paper provides a detailed review of the current battery technology analyzing the current EV RESS requirements and challenges faced in integration. Lastly, future scope and directions for EV centric LiB research discussed.