Recent advancements and performance implications of hybrid battery thermal management systems for Electric Vehicles

Abstract

Electric Vehicles (EVs) can contribute significantly toward the reduction of environmental emissions caused by traditional Internal Combustion Engines (ICEs), as well as it reduces the reliance on conventional fossil fuels. Lithium-ion batteries (LiBs) are generally preferred for EVs due to their superior energy density, specific power output, and longer lifespan. LiBs are most effective and achieve optimal performance within a specific temperature range of 15-35 °C. An efficient Battery Thermal Management System (BTMS) is necessary to dissipate the heat produced in the battery during continuous charging and discharging process, which ultimately determines the operating range and life cycle of the battery. The hybrid battery thermal management system is becoming increasingly popular as it tackles the downsides and capitalizes on the upsides of individual conventional battery thermal management systems. Although hybrid Battery Management Systems are often mentioned in review articles, there is a lack of detailed or specialized discussions specifically on hybrid BTMS for electric vehicles. This article summarizes the current state-of-the-art and recent advancements in hybrid battery thermal management of LiBs and discusses the performance implications of a hybrid battery thermal management system. The study extensively examines hybrid BTMSs, designed to enhance the thermal performance of traditional BTMSs to cope with the stringent thermal requirements in high ambient temperatures and fast charging conditions. Lastly, the article critically evaluates and discusses the different BTMSs, emphasizing the future prospects, challenges, and recommendations in the BTMS field. The review's findings will assist researchers in determining the future direction of next-generation LiB thermal management systems for high-power electric vehicles.