Maximizing energy density of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles: A critical review

Abstract

Currently, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have emerged as exceptional rechargeable energy storage solutions that are witnessing a swift increase in their range of uses because of characteristics such as remarkable energy density, significant power density, extended lifespan, and the absence of memory effects. Keeping with the pace of rapid development, specific purpose-oriented features of LIBs are being searched for to satisfy certain requirements. In the case of Electric Vehicles (EVs), the expected growth of LIB use is hindered because of the present level of driving range and battery pack size. However, both issues can be improved with elevated energy density at the cell level. Because high energy density will not only increase the driving range but also reduce the number of cells that will be required to deliver the same amount of power, thereby reducing the battery pack size. Higher energy density is achievable by designing LIB cells through materials-oriented design as well as cell parameter-focused design. Herein, a brief critical overview of LIB cell configuration for maximizing energy density of LIBs for EVs is presented considering viewpoints related to both material-oriented and cell parameter-focused optimization approaches.