In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), the battery is the heart of the operation, and a new study is shedding light on how the properties of individual battery cells influence the overall performance of battery packs. Published in the *International Journal of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles*, the research led by Jan Koloch from the Institute of Automotive Technology at the Technical University of Munich offers a detailed analysis of the correlations between cell properties and battery pack characteristics, providing valuable insights for the energy sector.
The study delves into the intricate relationships between different cell chemistries and formats, and how they translate into the performance of battery packs in EVs. Koloch and his team analyzed data from industry-leading benchmarking platforms, focusing on lithium-ion batteries, which are currently the dominant technology in the EV market.
One of the key findings is that while NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) and NCA (Nickel Cobalt Aluminum) chemistries offer higher energy densities at both the cell and pack levels compared to LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate), the latter’s favorable cell-to-pack factors help mitigate these differences. “This suggests that the choice of chemistry is not the only factor to consider when aiming for higher energy densities in battery packs,” Koloch explains.
The research also highlights that increases in cell-level volumetric and gravimetric energy density result in proportionally smaller gains at the pack level due to the growing proportion of required passive components. This insight underscores the importance of optimizing not just the cells themselves, but also the overall pack design to maximize energy storage efficiency.
Moreover, the study investigates the emerging sodium-ion battery technology, assessing pack-level energy densities derived from cell-level properties. This is particularly relevant as the energy sector explores alternatives to lithium-ion batteries to address supply chain concerns and reduce costs.
The findings of this study have significant commercial implications for the energy sector. As Koloch notes, “Understanding these cell-to-pack relationships is crucial for guiding R&D efforts towards improved energy storage solutions for electric vehicles.” This research could influence the development of next-generation batteries, shaping the future of EVs and the broader energy landscape.
By providing a comprehensive analysis of the interactions between cell properties and battery pack characteristics, this study offers a roadmap for manufacturers and researchers to optimize battery design and performance. As the world continues to shift towards sustainable energy solutions, such insights are invaluable in driving innovation and progress in the field of energy storage.