Current lithium-ion batteries are among the heaviest components in EVs, and the heft can adversely affect performance, efficiency, and safety. For instance, a GMC Hummer EV\u2019s battery alone weighs 2,818 pounds, the equivalent of a Honda Civic.<\/p>\n
Earlier in 2023, Stellantis invested in California battery company Lyten, which is developing lightweight lithium-sulfur batteries. The San Jose-based company claims a lower material cost, a 60 percent weight reduction, and resistance to thermal runaway.<\/p>\n
It has also mentioned the elimination of nickel, manganese, cobalt, and graphite. Cobalt has well-documented negative human and environmental impacts, and several companies are moving away from it.<\/p>\n
Stellantis also mentioned sodium-ion batteries as a possible alternative. CATL has developed a first-generation sodium-ion battery and claims a high energy density, fast charging capability, and improved thermal stability. Chinese state-owned carmaker Chery is reportedly the first automaker to use CATL\u2019s sodium-ion (Na-ion) batteries.<\/p>\n
Stellantis, which is the parent company of brands like Alfa Romeo, Ram Trucks, Citroen, Peugeot, Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Fiat among others, inaugurated its new $43 million Battery Technology in Turin last week.<\/p>\n
With a footprint of 8,000 square meters, the group claims it is one of Europe\u2019s largest battery testing and development hubs. Workers at the facility will oversee stress tests, durability tests, battery management system software development and calibration, and teardowns among other responsibilities.<\/p>\n
Gallery: CATL Sodium-Ion Batteries <\/h3>\n
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The group is also working with France\u2019s National Centre For Scientific Research (CNRS) and TotalEnergies-owned battery solutions company Saft to develop a battery that integrates inverter and charger functions within the module to free up space, reduce cost, and improve range. The apparent solution is called Intelligent Battery Integrated System (IBIS), and Stellantis has filed several patents for it.<\/p>\n
There are myriad experiments underway in battery technology across the globe with the common goal of reducing costs, improving energy density, and increasing driving range. We\u2019ll have to wait for a few years to see if one or more solutions can solve the persistent issue of range anxiety.<\/p>\n