In the quest for affordable and sustainable electric vehicles (EVs), a groundbreaking study from the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is challenging the dominance of lithium-ion batteries. The research, led by Jan Koloch from the School of Engineering & Design at TUM, explores the potential of sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) in EVs, offering a compelling alternative that could reshape the energy sector.
The study, published in the journal ‘e-Prime: Advances in Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Energy’ (which translates to ‘e-Prime: Progress in Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Energy’), delves into the techno-economic analysis of SIBs, comparing them with the widely used nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) and lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. The findings are striking: SIBs could reduce the cost per kilometer by up to 21.8% compared to NMC batteries, making them an attractive option for manufacturers and consumers alike.
Koloch and his team developed a vehicle simulation supplemented with a cost model to assess the real-world implications of SIBs. “Our results show that SIBs demonstrate the lowest cost per kilometer,” Koloch explains. “This economic advantage is particularly pronounced when low-cost home charging options are available.”
However, the journey towards widespread adoption of SIBs is not without its challenges. One of the main drawbacks is the lower volumetric energy density of SIBs, which limits the feasibility of high-capacity batteries. According to the study, only EVs with a battery capacity up to 59 kWh can be realized with current SIB technology. This constraint could pose a significant hurdle for long-range EVs, but it also opens up opportunities for innovation in vehicle design and energy management.
The sensitivity analysis conducted by the researchers reveals that while the gravimetric energy density of SIBs has a small influence on cost per kilometer, specific battery costs play a significant role. This insight underscores the importance of continued research and development in optimizing SIB technology to enhance its commercial viability.
The study also highlights the potential of SIBs in low-capacity battery configurations. When compared to NMC and LFP chemistries, SIBs achieve lower costs per kilometer while enabling a higher maximum range. “SIBs achieve 1€/100km lower costs per kilometer while enabling 64km higher maximum range than NMC,” Koloch notes. This finding presents a strong case for SIBs as a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries, particularly in the context of affordable EVs.
The implications of this research are far-reaching for the energy sector. As the world strives to achieve climate neutrality goals, the need for affordable and sustainable EV solutions is more pressing than ever. SIBs offer a viable path forward, with the potential to lower barriers to customer adoption and accelerate the transition to electric mobility.
Moreover, the study’s findings could influence future developments in battery technology and vehicle system design. By highlighting the economic advantages of SIBs, the research encourages further exploration into their applications and optimizations. As Koloch and his team continue to push the boundaries of battery innovation, the future of electric vehicles looks increasingly bright and affordable.
The energy sector is at a crossroads, and the rise of sodium-ion batteries could be the catalyst for a new era of sustainable and cost-effective electric mobility. With continued research and development, SIBs have the potential to revolutionize the way we power our vehicles, paving the way for a greener and more affordable future.