5 ms·
LFP has lower energy density, but it's still good enough to be usable, and the technology keeps getting better. I think recently-made LFP cells tend to be some
by elihu 5y ago
LFP has lower energy density, but it's still good enough to be usable, and the technology keeps getting better. I think recently-made LFP cells tend to be somewhere around 150 wh/kg, which is equivalent to older-generation regular lithium-ion cells. Tesla has been using LFPs in some of their model 3s; I'm not sure if that's just their China-market version or if that's worldwide.
I think LFP is a good option for getting mass-produced EVs to the point where they're approximately cost-competitive with gas-powered cars. Energy density isn't amazing, but the materials they're made from are cheaper and more readily available, they're easier to recycle, they can last a very long time, and they're quite a bit safer.
I expect regular lithium ion will continue to be used in high-end vehicles until some battery technology comes along that's better and cheaper, or cobalt and nickel get so expensive that it's not worth the cost.
That's interesting that the BMW is that much less efficient than a Chevy Bolt. I wonder if that's due to aerodynamics, weight, drivetrain efficiency, or something else?
- wffurr 5y agoAnd now today I read that Tesla is switching all standard-range models to LFP batteries! https://arstechnica.com/cars/2021/10/tesla-made-1-6-billion-in-q3-is-switching-to-lfp-batteries-globally/ https://arstechnica.com/cars/2021/10/tesla-made-1-6-billion-... I think my point still stands about non-Tesla automakers, who seem disinclined to optimize their vehicles for range. Tesla, with better aerodynamics and more efficient drivetrains, are well positioned to use LFP batteries. Combine that with their expertise in building safe, efficient battery packs, and they’ll be even further ahead of everyone else. Living in a relatively cold climate (average January temperature in Boston, MA, USA is 22F [-6C]), I am a bit concerned about the reportedly worse cold performance of the batteries, but presumably they’ll manage that. One of their top markets is Norway after all. Now if only they would just put some damn knobs in the car instead of that giant touchscreen…
- wffurr 5y agoMostly weight I imagine. The BMW is 1500lb heavier. I agree that LFP ought to be usable, but only if automakers step up their efficiency to match.