New Technologies for Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles aren't the only thing that will change in the coming years. Solid-state batteries are another big improvement. They don't have moving parts or fluids, and they can go for over 900 miles on a single charge. Next up are fast-charging stations and wireless charging.
Alternatives to lithium-ion batteries
In the last several years, the research community has explored the development of batteries that are not lithium-ion-based. One promising alternative is ammonia, which can be produced without creating any greenhouse gas emissions. It can also be converted to hydrogen and has twice the energy density of liquid hydrogen. While its commercialization is not yet imminent, it could be a great addition to the future of electric vehicles.
However, this new type of battery will not come without limitations. The major drawback of lithium-ion is its limited life span and supply issues. Alternatives to lithium-ion batteries include other battery technologies such as hydrogen fuel cells, aluminum-graphite batteries, bioelectrochemical batteries, all-polymer batteries, powered roads, solar panels, and others.
Li-S batteries are another promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are based on redox reactions and have higher energy density than Li-Ion batteries. In addition, sulfur is an abundant element in nature, and is used in the development of these batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries are expensive to produce and import. Consequently, they are expensive for electric vehicles. Moreover, they have environmental risks. In addition, they take a long time to recharge and offer only a limited KM range.
Fast-charging stations
In order to make electric vehicles more affordable and accessible to more drivers, the New York Power Authority has committed $250 million for the creation of fast-charging stations. The goal of the program is to make electric vehicles easy to own and operate in the state, while also helping to reduce the carbon footprint of the transportation sector. The fund is part of a state initiative to install 800 fast chargers by 2025, with chargers located along key state highway corridors and compatible with all current EV models.
EV fast-charging stations charge electric vehicles directly and rapidly. This technology is used by electric vehicle manufacturers to speed up the charging process and to accelerate the energy transition. DC fast chargers are more efficient than traditional AC charging stations, and can charge most passenger electric vehicles in 15 to 45 minutes. These charging stations have an additional advantage: they are easy to use and allow drivers to charge their vehicles on-the-go.
In addition to reducing the time it takes to recharge an EV, the infrastructure system needs to be able to provide a consistent, ongoing charge to EVs. The goal is for fast charging stations to be as efficient and convenient as a traditional gasoline service station.
Wireless charging
Wireless charging for electric vehicles is a rapidly growing industry. According to Navigant Research, the worldwide market for wireless charging equipment is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 108% by 2025. The technology is already available on electric cars from Nissan and Chevrolet. It can also be used for other types of vehicles.
Wireless charging for electric vehicles has the potential to reduce the need for cords and reduce the time it takes to charge an EV. However, it must be adapted for different situations. It will need to be standardized internationally, and it must be implemented in various ways to be effective for the widest number of electric vehicles. Wireless charging is a solution that is able to reduce user interaction during the charging process, and it can even be used on the go.
Moreover, it requires higher power and voltage to charge an electric vehicle. This will entail more technical challenges, including cost, safety, and environmental impacts. The distance between the charging pad and the receiving car is longer, which reduces the efficiency of energy transfer. Moreover, the design of the wireless charging system should be efficient to minimize thermal management and environmental impact.
Wireless charging is a solution for electric vehicles and is becoming a popular solution in urban areas. In addition to charging cars wirelessly, it is also used to improve the overall efficiency of the power grid. WiTricity plans to demonstrate its new wireless charging technologies at the NAIAS auto show in Detroit.
