As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain popularity, there is one element at the core of this revolution: the battery. It serves as the backbone that not only powers the car but also determines their range, efficiency, and overall performance. However let's be realistic, it's not all plain sailing.
For a quick overview of the article in podcast fashion, watch the video below. What Are EV Batteries? Electric Vehicle (EV) batteries are the core component that powers these eco-friendly vehicles, serving as the energy source and influencing factors such as range, acceleration, and the car's overall lifespan.
Battery electric vehicles have lower maintenance costs compared to internal combustion vehicles since electronic systems break down much less often than the mechanical systems in conventional vehicles, and the fewer mechanical systems onboard last longer due to the better use of the electric engine.
They are the backup plan, as fossil fuels are predicted to run out in the next 50 years or so. But the concept of a battery-powered vehicle is still very new. From the build to performance to cost, we will break down everything for you to better understand the heart of EVs — the BATTERY. What goes into the EV battery?
The electric car battery, which can weigh as much as half a ton, is the EV’s fuel tank. It stores the electrical energy that powers the motor. Most electric vehicles use lithium-ion batteries due to their high energy density, long life span, and lightweight.
These batteries are expected to remain dominant in EVs for the foreseeable future thanks to plunging costs and improvements in performance. Right now, electric-car batteries typically weigh around 1,000 pounds, cost around $15,000 to manufacture, and have enough power to run a typical home for a few days.