Researchers in China have developed a new type of lithium battery that could significantly increase the driving range of electric vehicles (EVs). The breakthrough battery technology, created by scientists at Nankai University, may potentially double the range of EVs without increasing battery size or weight.
Conventional lithium batteries used in electric vehicles rely on a chemical interaction between lithium salts and oxygen atoms in a solvent to generate power. This process allows lithium ions to move through the electrolyte, producing electrical energy. However, these batteries require large amounts of solvent, making it difficult to reduce battery size. In addition, traditional solvents perform poorly at low temperatures, reducing battery efficiency in colder climates.
Most current lithium-ion batteries operate close to their theoretical energy density limit of around 350 watt-hours per kilogram (Wh/kg). As a result, many companies have been exploring alternatives such as solid-state batteries to achieve higher performance.
According to a new study published in Nature, the newly developed battery uses a fluorinated hydrocarbon solvent, which enables more effective dissolution of lithium salts. This approach replaces the conventional lithium-oxygen interaction model and improves the efficiency of ion transport while reducing the amount of electrolyte required.
Researchers say the new battery can achieve an energy density of more than 700 Wh/kg at room temperature and nearly 400 Wh/kg at temperatures as low as −50°C. The improved chemistry also enables faster charge transfer while maintaining stable ion movement within the battery.
“An electrolyte needs to release ions quickly and also enable fast charge transfer, but those two requirements usually conflict,” explained Zhao Qing, a professor at Nankai University. “Fluorine’s weaker interaction with lithium helps resolve that challenge.”
The lithium-fluoride system also allows the battery to operate efficiently in extremely cold conditions, making it suitable for vehicles or drones used in high-altitude or harsh environments.
Lead researcher Chen Jun said the technology could dramatically extend EV range. “Electric vehicles with a current range of about 500 km could potentially travel more than 1,000 km on a single charge using this battery,” he said.
If commercialized, the innovation could bring conventional lithium batteries closer to the performance levels expected from next-generation solid-state battery technologies.
Click Here to get the latest EV news and exclusive updates from EV Mechanica on WhatsApp!