The battery is one of the fundamental components for the operation of an electric car and is also the element that has the greatest impact on the final price. Let's discover the main characteristics of next-generation batteries: How long do they last? How much time do they take to complete a recharge? What safety systems do they adopt?
Table of Contents:
- Operation of electric car battery
- Battery lifespan
- Charging time
- Safety system
1. Operation of electric car battery
Electric cars utilize a much simpler technology compared to the engines of traditional internal combustion vehicles, namely the battery. The battery enables the storage and release of the energy necessary to set the wheels in motion. In fact, it contains cells in which an electric current is generated through the movement of electrons.
In recent years, the automotive industry has optimized battery functionality through the development of new technologies. Indeed, the batteries in the latest generation of cars can recharge much more rapidly and are notably more efficient.
2. Battery lifespan
Normally, a battery has an average lifespan that ranges between 7 and 8 years, although some manufacturers offer warranties that extend beyond 10 years of autonomy. The lifespan of a battery also depends on the kilometers driven; once the threshold of 160,000 km is crossed, the capacity to store and release energy significantly diminishes.
3. Charging time
The charging time at the charging station varies based on the battery capacity and the type of charging, alternating current or direct current, being performed. Considering the latest generation batteries, the charging time is much faster due to the ability to store larger amounts of energy in quicker times. In the case of direct current fast charging at the charging station, the timing significantly decreases, reaching about 1 hour with a charging station power of 50 kW. This change is attributed to the new electric battery accumulators that enable handling much higher charging powers.
4. Safety system
The batteries for electric cars are becoming increasingly secure, thanks to cooling or thermal management systems that prevent overheating of internal components. The battery is generally cooled using air or liquid, depending on the weight of the vehicle. Additionally, the thermal system is useful for regulating battery heating during the charging preparation phase. Finally, the batteries are equipped with a protective shell and devices that interrupt electrical activity in case of impact.
The electric car industry continues to invest in battery optimization, promising an increasingly sustainable and efficient future for road mobility. This is why Team EOS is ready to uncover the latest developments in the field and guide you towards informed choices in electric mobility!