Japanese technology company Asahi Kasei has made a groundbreaking discovery that could revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Despite the significant advancements in EV battery performance, extreme temperatures can still impact the overall user experience. In extremely cold temperatures, driving range can diminish by as much as 12 percent, while high temperatures can accelerate battery aging.
Asahi Kasei claims to have found a solution to these temperature-related issues with a new high ionic conductive electrolyte for lithium-ion battery cells. This electrolyte allows lithium ions to move faster and more efficiently, improving battery performance significantly. In proof-of-concept tests, the new electrolyte demonstrated high power performance at -40 degrees Fahrenheit and doubled the battery life at 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
The development of this new electrolyte aligns with the shift towards lithium-iron phosphate batteries (LFPs) in the EV industry. LFP batteries are cheaper as they do not require expensive elements like nickel, manganese, or cobalt. Asahi Kasei’s new electrolyte will benefit both vehicle manufacturers and consumers by increasing range and reducing charging time for LFP batteries.
While the commercialization of this electrolyte is expected to begin in 2025, Asahi Kasei believes there is great potential for increased demand in both the EV and energy storage sectors. By targeting the increasingly important LFP batteries and optimizing the electrolyte for higher performance vehicles, Asahi Kasei aims to drive innovation within the current battery design landscape. The company’s innovative electrolyte could pave the way for a more efficient and reliable EV industry, with benefits extending to energy storage systems as well.
