Volvo resides as much as the promise it made final 12 months when it introduced to end production of vehicles powered by diesel engines in early 2024. This XC90 assembled on the firm’s Torslanda manufacturing facility is the ultimate oil-burner produced by the Swedish automaker, ending an period that began 45 years in the past. The blue SUV will not be heading to a buyer since it will go right into a museum for posterity.
The Geely-owned marque did not begin to preserve observe of diesel automobile manufacturing till 1991, and since then, it has constructed greater than 9 million automobiles. Since the data do not present what number of automobiles have been constructed from 1979 till 1991, the entire quantity is far larger contemplating 12 years are lacking. The final of the diesel breed is heading to the World of Volvo museum in Gothenburg.
The diesel story began with the 244 GL D6, however it did not have a Volvo engine. Instead, it was powered by a naturally aspirated six-cylinder unit borrowed from Volkswagen and Audi. It wasn’t till 2001 that Volvo launched a diesel engine of its personal, a five-cylinder mill assembled in-house on the manufacturing facility in Skövde.
In 2017, Volvo introduced plans to finish improvement of diesel engines. Last month, the ultimate automobile with a diesel engine (a V60) was inbuilt Ghent, Belgium. Now, the diesel engine is totally gone from the lineup.
The subsequent step is to finish the manufacturing of automobiles powered by combustion engines altogether. Although different luxurious manufacturers resembling Mercedes and Bentley have pushed again their overly ambitious EV targets, Volvo is sticking by its plan to go utterly electrical by the top of the last decade.
Europe is the final bastion of diesel automobiles, however demand has been shrinking within the aftermath of the Volkswagen Group’s messy emissions-cheating scandal. In addition, stricter emissions rules are forcing automakers to progressively drop diesel engines. Investments to make diesels adjust to the EU’s more durable laws can be costly, and since demand is dropping, it does not make sense to spend cash on these dying engines.
The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) claims diesel’s market share in Europe dropped from 16.4 % in 2022 to 13.6 % in 2023. Fully electrical automobiles have been extra in style final 12 months by taking a 14.6 % share, whereas plug-in hybrids accounted for 7.7 %. Gasoline automobiles reigned supreme with 35.3 %. Regular hybrids took a 25.8 % share whereas different kinds of propulsion accounted for the remaining 3 %.
The promise of totally self-driving vehicles stays elusive. That is perhaps an excellent factor, a minimum of going by a brand new research from AAA that discovered nearly all of individuals are really afraid of autonomous autos. Even extra stunning: That quantity has elevated in recent times whereas public belief has fallen.
According to AAA, 66 p.c of respondents mentioned they feared self-driving autos. That’s up from 55 p.c in 2022, however down from 68 p.c final 12 months. The share of those that belief AVs held regular from 2023 to 2024 at 9 p.c, whereas 25 p.c have been not sure of them. Both numbers are down from 15 and 30 p.c, respectively, in 2022.
While consumers is perhaps weary of robotic vehicles, they aren’t against some technological help behind the wheel. Respondents mentioned they have been thinking about some know-how, with greater than half open to computerized braking, reverse computerized braking, and lane maintain help. Only 42 p.c have been thinking about energetic driving help, and 49 p.c have been for adaptive cruise management.
Buyers ought to be skeptical of even these driver aids, nevertheless, as one other AAA research found that they aren’t at all times dependable. The group lately researched the effectiveness of computerized rear braking programs, and only one out of 40 test runs ended without a crash. Half of the vehicles did not cease for stationary pedestrians standing behind the car.
Most consumers received’t have to fret about autonomous autos anytime quickly. General Motors’ Cruise division has faced significant safety hurdles over the previous couple of months, and it seems that Google’s Waymo is without doubt one of the remaining outfits placing in a full effort to develop the know-how. It expanded its robotaxi service to Los Angeles right now, however the tech remains to be years away from making it into on a regular basis passenger autos.
Despite the anticipation and promise of what the Tesla-killer Nikola Badger would’ve been, the progressive pickup truck was met with an premature dying in 2020 when General Motors withdrew from its partnership with Nikola. It had a proposed price ticket between $60,000 and $80,000, making it a premium electrical pickup providing. Offered in both a four-motor or in-wheel hub motor setup, its futuristic powertrain would’ve peaked at 906 horsepower with its 980 pound-feet of torque, sufficient to speed up from zero to 60 mph in beneath three seconds.
The Badger would’ve been obtainable in a versatile set of powertrain choices which might’ve included both only a cutting-edge 160-kWh battery-electric variant with a 300-mile vary or a mix of that battery-electric powertrain with an non-compulsory 120.0-kWh fuel-cell, for a complete mixed vary of 600 miles. Other than renderings, nothing is understood of the inside. Renderings had it providing a Tesla Model 3-like infotainment display in a futuristic-looking inside. The truck mattress would’ve included a 15-kWh energy outlet like an onboard generator.
The cancelation of the Nikola Badger marked the top of a truck that, along with revolutionizing the electrical pickup and electric vehicle market, would’ve launched groundbreaking expertise like a hybrid BEV/FCEV powertrain, and a singular characteristic like water produced by its hydrogen system being secure to drink.
In order to provide the newest and correct data attainable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from official automaker web sites, in addition to authoritative automotive sources just like the EPA. With the Nikola Badger being canceled for shut to a few years, an official web site for direct data from the auto producer on the automobile is now not obtainable.
A proposed hydrogen gas cell system may revolutionize FCEVs simply as they’re taking off, and this is all it’s worthwhile to learn about it.
1It Would’ve Been Priced Between $60,000 And $80,000
Nikola
There was plenty of anticipation for the discharge of the Nikola Badger electrical pickup truck. Initial worth estimates hinted at a beginning worth being $60,000 and doubtlessly climbing to $80,000 relying on trim and choices chosen, however Nikola had not but finalized the precise figures. Pre-orders started June 29, with the corporate receiving deposits starting from $250 to $5,000.
The Nikola Badger Would’ve Had A Competitive Price
However, after the truck was canceled, the corporate needed to announce its determination to refund all submitted orders. With a beginning worth of $60,000, the Nikola Badger would’ve been roughly $10,000 dearer than the bottom Ford F-150 Lightning, lower than $1,000 cheaper than the single-motor rear-wheel drive 2025 Tesla Cybertruck, and $18,000 cheaper than the Rivian R1T.
2Renderings Had It As A Futuristic-looking Pickup
Nikola
The renderings of the Nikola Badger electric pickup truck turned heads with its placing and futuristic exterior design. The design boasted a sturdy but aerodynamic silhouette, serving to the Badger exude a commanding presence on the highway. It had a particular entrance fascia which was characterised by modern LED headlights and a uniquely designed grille.
Exterior Dimensions
Length
231.7 inches
Height
75 inches
Width
79.8 inches
Wheelbase
145 inches
(Specs sourced from Nikola)
Its entrance and rear bumpers have been expertly positioned to reinforce method and departure angles, whereas the sculpted physique traces and aggressive wheel arches conveyed a rugged sophistication a heavy-duty truck ought to’ve been identified for. The rigorously crafted mattress would’ve showcased each utility and innovation, with a width of 61.41 inches. It would’ve been longer than the Tesla Cybertruck.
As a sequence of hydrogen autos put together to hit the auto market, they plan to reimagine the inexperienced way forward for driving.
3It Peaked At 906 Horsepower And Would’ve Hit 60 MPH In 2.9 Seconds
Nikola
The Nikola Badger would’ve been provided with both a four-motor setup or an in-wheel hub motor setup, which might’ve promised fairly an thrilling efficiency. The Badger would’ve had an influence output rated at 455 “continuous” horsepower and would have surged to 905 horsepower and a powerful 980 pound-feet of torque when pushed to its limits.
Performance Specifications
Motor Layout
Four-motor/in-wheel hub motor
Horsepower
455 HP (steady)/905 HP (peak)
Torque
980 lb-ft
0-60 mph
2.9 secs
(Specs sourced from Nikola)
Such immense energy at its disposal would’ve rivaled the GMC Hummer EV’s acceleration, with the ability to dash from zero to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds. This would’ve put the Badger in supercar territory, 0.6 seconds quicker to 60 mph than the 3.5-second Ferrari Portofino. The Tesla Cybertruck would’ve bested its acceleration by 0.3 seconds.
4It Had A Battery Pack That Would’ve Traveled 300 Miles Of Range
Nikola
The Nikola Badger would’ve been geared up as both a cutting-edge battery-electric variant or a battery-electric variant with an non-compulsory 120.0-kWh gas cell. The battery-electric-only variant would’ve had a 160.0-kWh battery pack at its core, with its electric-only powertrain promising a spread of roughly 300 miles on a full cost. This variant would’ve competed in opposition to the Rivian R1T’s battery capability.
The medium-sized 135-kWh battery option offers an EPA-estimated range of up to 328 miles on a full charge, which means the 300-mile vary estimated by Nikola may’ve been a conservative estimate. Nikola’s partnership with General Motors would’ve meant GM would’ve produced and equipped the batteries for the battery-electric-only variant. GMC Hummer EV options the Ultium battery expertise, which is a modular design for the aim of optimizing power density.
Hydrogen vehicles characterize a promising and eco-conscious alternative for the way forward for sustainable transportation.
517.6-pound Hydrogen Fuel Tank And A Range Of 600 Miles
Nikola
The Nikola Badger’s hybrid powertrain choice, which might’ve built-in each battery-electric and hydrogen fuel-cell applied sciences, would’ve redefined the boundaries of sustainable driving. This characteristic would’ve been an progressive powertrain consisting of a considerable 160.0-kWh battery pack, and an non-compulsory 120.0-kWh gas cell in a 17.6-pound hydrogen gas tank.
This would’ve been a cutting-edge synergy that had been projected to end in a combined range of approximately 600 miles on a full charge. It would’ve been the electrical automobile with the longest driving vary, rivaling the Toyota Prius Prime’s 600 miles, and besting the five hundred miles anticipated to be provided by the Tesla Cybertruck. The 17.6-pound hydrogen gas tank would’ve been 5.3 kilos heavier than the Toyota Mirai’s 12.3-pound tank which produces at least 357 miles of range.
6The Water Produced By The Hydrogen System Should’ve Been Safe To Drink
Nikola
One characteristic of the hydrogen fuel-cell system within the Nikola Badger that will’ve been outstanding was the manufacturing of unpolluted, potable water as a byproduct. This water would’ve been generated on account of the chemical response throughout the fuel-cell system. The system can convert hydrogen into electricity and pure drinkable water.
This would’ve allowed drivers and passengers entry to a handy and sustainable supply of secure ingesting water by way of a water fountain that will’ve channeled it into the cabin for secure ingesting because it was deliberate to do by channeling a few of it into the windshield water tank. This would’ve been just like the water produced by Toyota’s Mirai, which is reported to not solely be secure but additionally appropriate for ingesting, though not inspired.
Solid-state batteries may doubtlessly kill the prospects of hydrogen gas cells taking up as the way forward for transport.
7It Had A Rated Towing Capacity Of 8,000 Pounds
Nikola
The Nikola Badger’s rated towing capability of 8,000 pounds would’ve made it a reliable providing within the fiercely aggressive pickup truck section. An progressive powertrain and a sturdy construct would’ve produced the arrogance to haul heavy masses with ease. For a piece truck, this towing capability would’ve showcased the Badger’s energy and reliability, serving to it grow to be a flexible work companion for demanding duties.
It would’ve been the identical capability because the Chevrolet Silverado EV, and Lordstown Endurance. This would’ve been 500 kilos greater than the GMC Hummer EV is able to. If it hadn’t been canceled, 8,000 kilos would’ve been sufficient for towing gear for a piece website or hauling leisure gear for a weekend journey. Its 600-mile vary would’ve been glorious for towing trailers off-road, though that will’ve been halved when at most towing capability.
8It Had A Power Outlet That Could’ve Acted As An External Generator
Nikola
A really progressive characteristic of the Nikola Badger would’ve been its 15-kW built-in energy outlet, a dependable supply of electrical energy that will’ve offered for plug-in instruments and gear. This would’ve been a groundbreaking outlet that will’ve boasted a powerful endurance, with the ability to energy instruments for up to 12 hours without the need for an external generator.
This is an distinctive functionality that will’ve revolutionized the method of customers to their work, providing the comfort a cell generator would’ve provided at job websites or out of doors actions. It would’ve been just like the Pro Power Onboard electrical shops within the Ford F-150 Lightning’s mattress, which, with the 80-amp Ford Charge Station Pro, may run a whole residence for as much as three days. Its practicality and flexibility would’ve been good for development instruments, tenting gear, or important home equipment, making certain on-the-go productiveness.
Can hydrogen autos emerge because the quintessence of sustainable transportation? These 15 upcoming hydrogen vehicles may maintain the reply.
9It Would’ve Had A Futuristic Driver-centric Infotainment System
Nikola
Although the general public had solely seen renderings of the Badger, the inside seemed like a compelling mixture of conventional and futuristic design parts. The idea was anticipated to be a spacious and tech-savvy cabin, with the centerpiece of the dashboard being an enormous horizontally oriented display, the precise dimension in inches unknown. It would’ve had a conventional heart console with a number of cupholders for practicality, with an progressive floor-mounting system all through the cabin aimed toward securing cargo storage.
This spacious inside would’ve had seating for as much as 5 people on seats fabricated from waterproof supplies. A hidden fridge would’ve been included for added comfort. It would’ve been coupled with a classy HVAC system which, completely different from the screen-only rising sample of EVs, would’ve been managed by a row of bodily knobs and buttons.
10It Would’ve Had A Versatile And Spacious Innovative Bed
Nikola
Not a lot data is on the market in regards to the truck mattress of the Nikola Badger apart from somewhat scattered data and a few gathered off renderings. The Nikola Badger’s truck mattress would’ve been sensible with a width of 61.41 inches and size of 61.5 inches, which might’ve offered utility. This would’ve been sufficient area for hauling gear, gear, and cargo with ease.
It would’ve been bigger than that of the Rivian R1T’s 4.5-foot truck bed, which is affected by plenty of progressive technological options. This truck mattress can accommodate a payload capability of over 1,700 kilos. Adding within the Badger’s 15-kW energy outlet able to powering home equipment for as much as 12 hours, would’ve made the Badger an excellent companion for out of doors adventures or worksite necessities.
Electric motorcycles, like the 2022 Energica Eva Ribelle RS, are known for their instantly accessible torque. Despite having a top speed of 125 miles per hour, this bike offers a thrilling experience due to its powerful 126-kilowatt motor and 222-newton meter torque.
The bike uses Energica’s latest EMCE motor and inverter, combined with a 21.5-kilowatt hour battery. Even though it weighs 573 pounds, the bike boasts a lower center of gravity and improved motor and inverter technology. Read more about the upgrades here.
When tested at the drag strip, the Eva Ribelle RS consistently ran quarter-mile times around 11 seconds, with the best time being 10.9 seconds. The bike’s speed was so impressive that officials warned the rider not to go below 10 seconds without a special license.
During the testing, the traction control was adjusted, leading to a few tense moments when the bike became unstable at the start. Despite this, the bike remained under control and completed the run successfully.
The 800-Mile Road Trip
Before reaching the drag strip, New Zeroland completed an 800-mile road trip on the new Eva Ribelle RS. This trip aimed to test the bike’s endurance and the availability of fast-charging stations along the way.
The rider was pleased to find that the improved battery allowed for longer stretches between charging stops. Additionally, the increase in fast-charging stations from various providers was a positive improvement, although there were still issues with some stations not working.
Track Bans On Electric Motorcycles
In New Zealand, some tracks are banning EVs due to concerns about fire and safety. While Motorsport New Zealand allows electric and hybrid vehicles at “permitted events,” individual tracks have their own rules about vehicle types allowed on their premises. These limitations were highlighted by New Zeroland’s experiences.
That’s New Zealand, but what about other places?
If such restrictions are happening at your local track, share your experiences with us. We’d like to hear if it’s electric motorcycles, all EVs, or something else.
Yew Tree has increased its ownership in Aston Martin to over 25%, despite a previous commitment to Geely and sparking rumors of a potential partnership with another car manufacturer.
The group, headed by billionaire chairman Lawrence Stroll, announced last Friday that it acquired an additional 3.27% stake in Aston Martin, bringing its total ownership to 26.23%.
This share purchase contradicts an agreement made with Geely earlier this year when the Chinese company increased its stake to 17% and resolved a conflict with Stroll by purchasing Aston Martin shares at a premium price.
Google has made a significant commitment by promising 10 years of software updates for new Chromebooks. This ensures that users can continue to enjoy the latest features and security enhancements for a decade.
In addition to the long-term software support, Google is also working on making future Chromebooks more sustainable. They are introducing software updates that will improve the charging process by making it more efficient and adaptive. They are also adding a battery-saver mode that conserves energy by turning off unnecessary processes, thereby extending the battery life.
Google is not just focused on product development; they are taking steps to ensure the responsible disposal of older Chromebooks. Organizations will have an easier time selling their older devices through dedicated resellers who will handle the collection and disposal process safely. Individual users can also take advantage of convenient recycling drop-off locations, available on Google Maps, to discard their old devices responsibly. These initiatives are expected to reduce ownership costs for Chromebook users, making the machines even more appealing.
The pure electric Mahindra Bolero and Scorpio are expected to have a range of over 400 kilometers
The Scorpio N, Scorpio Classic, Bolero, and Bolero Neo will be electrified.
They will be based on Mahindra’s INGLO platform.
These vehicles could have a battery pack of up to 78kWh with a range of over 400km.
They are expected to enter the market by 2027.
BREAKING! After electrifying the Thar and showcasing its XUV.e and BE series, Mahindra has confirmed that the Scorpio and Bolero series are next in line. The carmaker will offer pure EV versions of both these SUV models, which include the Scorpio N, Scorpio Classic, Bolero, and Bolero Neo using its INGLO architecture.
Based On INGLO Platform
Mahindra had already announced that they are planning a new-generation Bolero, and the EV version will likely be closer to that model than to the current one. The INGLO modular platform can accommodate a battery pack with a capacity of up to 78kWh and allows for both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive systems. This platform can provide a range of over 400km and the battery pack can be charged from 5 to 80 percent in just 30 minutes.
A Fresh Identity
These new EVs from Mahindra will have their own unique identities, unlike the XUV400, which incorporates copper elements as part of its electric design language. With a new identity, we can expect a more modern look for these electric SUVs inside and out, similar to Mahindra’s Born EV lineup.
Among the multiple powertrain options available with this platform, the two rear-mounted options deliver 231PS/380Nm and 285PS/535Nm. Currently, the internal combustion engine (ICE) versions of both SUVs are based on ladder-frame platforms with rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. While the Bolero is only available in diesel, the Scorpio N also offers a turbo-petrol engine.
Launch Timeline
As of now, there is no specific launch timeline for the Scorpio and Bolero-based EVs, but we can expect them to be on Indian roads by 2026 or 2027 after the launch of the XUV.e and Born Electric (BE) series.
Solid-state batteries hold promise for longer lifespan, increased range, and faster charging times, making EV ownership more appealing for consumers.
The challenges faced by solid-state batteries, such as poor stability and high surface resistance, are being addressed through research and development efforts by various institutions and companies.
While solid-state batteries have the potential to be a game-changer, improvements to current battery technology and the development of sodium-ion batteries could impact their widespread adoption.
Solid-state batteries have been promised by major car manufacturers for quite some time now. Toyota, one such carmaker that invests in developing this technology, intends to launch a hybrid car with solid-state batteries by 2025. Solid-state batteries are the foremost in terms of battery technology for the EV future coming to fruition faster than many legacy automakers expected.
This battery technology should deliver a longer life span than currently used lithium-ion batteries, more range, and faster charging times, among other benefits. Since legacy automakers are banking on this technology to hit mass markets by 2025, people waiting for some nuances of owning an EV to be addressed to pull the trigger on buying one should be excited. But why wait until 2025? What are the challenges preventing the widespread use of solid-state batteries right now? Is the advancement toward this technology noticeable, or is it stuck in time? Here’s what’s been going on with solid-state batteries.
Updated on August 5, 2023: As 2025 approaches, the thought of solid-state batteries taking over the EV industry has many people watching the market. Waiting to see how everything unfolds, including those of us reporting on the process. For now, we must all contend with reading about the updates as things progress, so keep coming back for the latest information as it becomes available.
There Are Still Tricky Issues For A Viable EV Solid-State Battery
Many challenges are posed by using solid electrolytes versus the current liquid electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries. The stability of these batteries is usually poor, and their high surface resistance limits their output and, concurrently, their applications. But advancements are, in fact, happening on more than one front.
From companies like battery manufacturer QuantumScape to renowned universities all over the world, such as Harvard in the States, as well as Tokyo University of Science, among others, from legacy and BEV carmakers to even NASA, many institutions are working on improving the technology, fix its issues and make the leap toward mass-market application.
Solid-State Battery Use Will Depend On Figuring Out The EDL
Nissan
The widespread commercial application of solid-state batteries is currently faced with a still unknown challenge. Exactly how the surface resistance shown by these batteries happen continues to be something that evades researchers’ knowledge and is linked by them to a phenom called the Electric Double Layer (EDL). This EDL effect happens at the solid/solid electrolyte interface, an issue that, for obvious reasons, doesn’t happen with liquid-chemistry batteries such as the ones used in BEVs and hybrids today.
This unpredictable EDL effect is one of the main reasons solid-state batteries aren’t available on present-day EVs. But as researchers’ optimism remains resilient and more resources are put into it, it seems reasonable to believe the needed breakthroughs for solid-state batteries will happen in the coming years, if not sooner. All this research and development is, after all, highly fueled by the gigantic EV market in the world today. As the saying goes, ‒ money talks ‒, and there is a lot of it to be made with suitable solid-state batteries.
Solid-State Can Be A Game-Changer, But Others Are Trying To Improve Current Battery Technology Instead
QuantumScape
Different approaches to building a solid-state battery are being tested, and the EDL effect is being reduced to the point where it is becoming more predictable. But solid-state technology faces other problems, like the further development of current liquid-chemistry batteries. CATL, the world’s largest battery manufacturer, as well as the U.S. Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, has experimented with sodium-ion batteries,
Sodium has some advantages over lithium-ion batteries, one of them being the high availability of the material over lithium, but it also has some trade-offs. A hybrid battery pack that uses sodium and lithium-ion is also being tested by CATL and could make batteries more affordable and better overall for current BEVs. This solution could put solid-state batteries in check should their cost be prohibitive.
Solid-State Batteries Could Virtually Eliminate Range Anxiety
Nissan
The current average range for an EV is around 300 miles now, with every year that passes raising the distances even more. But, take a step back for a moment and look at what the people at NASA have been able to accomplish with their solid-state battery research. Granted, the people at NASA have some of the best minds on the planet, but they are more than willing to share their knowledge and findings with the rest of the world.
What they have found, last year no less, is that by using the technology that they currently use in aircraft, they can produce automobile batteries that can double, or even triple, the range of any current EV on the market. Not to mention, cut the charging times down to hours rather than days. Since one of the leaders in space technology, QuantumSpace, has joined forces with Volkswagen to prove the point by 2025, time will show if the numbers can be formed into fact.
Conventional Battery Technology Still Has Room For Improvement
BYD
Battery technology has improved tremendously since the beginning of the current BEV revolution, and their cost, which accounts for a large portion of a BEV’s price, has decreased proportionally. BYD, the largest EV automaker in China, far ahead of Tesla in sales in that market, has plans to tackle the EV market Stateside, and that promises to bring EV prices further down, much closer to current ICE vehicles, making the transition towards a BEV easier for customers.
BYD already supplies a few cities in the U.S. with electric buses made in a factory built several years ago in Lancaster, California. They’ve been analyzing the American market for some time now, and when they come with all their resources, they’ll do so with a sound strategy that could really shake things up in the EV market in the US.
Solid-State Batteries Are Not As Explosive As Lithium-Ion Batteries
Nissan
There are a ton of news write-ups online and on paper about the dangers of EVs and the battery fires that will surely happen if you own one. The facts are not quite that straightforward, though, because, for the most part, the findings are that an EV is just as safe to own as an ICE vehicle when it comes to the chance of it spontaneously erupting into flames due to an explosive battery.
That is not to say that lithium-ion batteries are not explosive because they are. They actually have an explosive flash point of 18 to 145 degrees Celsius, with the most dangerous point being right around room temperature. Of course, safeguards are built into the battery, so the occurrence of an explosion is far less than you would imagine, but it does happen. On the other hand, solid-state batteries are not flammable, so a blast due to a battery will never happen.
Saving The Environment Until It Is Time To Replace The Solid-State Battery
Toyota
Reducing your carbon footprint on the Earth is one big reason to invest in an EV, so it goes without saying that you will recycle and reuse everything you can. After all, there is no point in trying to reduce the harm you do to the environment in one way without taking steps in other areas of your life to do the same. The problem with that line of thinking is that if you purchase an EV with a solid-state battery installed, when it comes time to replace it, you will not have any way to safely discard or recycle it.
As of yet, there is no good way to recycle a solid-state battery. The only way to get rid of them is to toss them out. Doing this will cause irreparable harm to the planet because of the chemicals used during the manufacturing process to make the battery in the first place, including lithium. Hopefully, by the time the batteries need to be replaced, a solution will be found for this dilemma. If not, a warehouse somewhere in the world will be tasked to hold these used-up batteries safely until some type of solution can be found.
Solid-State Batteries: Cost-Effectiveness And Viability For The Long Haul
JLStock | Shutterstock
For a full ICE to BEV transition to take place as fast as possible, something that interests society as a whole, particularly due to environmental and health concerns, EVs need to be affordable, and that’s why batteries are so important. They’re expensive, and making them cheaper, either by scaling production, or finding ways to make them more energy dense, enabling the use of smaller battery packs without compromising range, or even by transitioning to a whole new technology such as solid-state batteries, is critical for a sustainable future.
Considering the advancements that have been shown so far, along with the expectations and plans of companies and research institutions for the near future, solid-state batteries should indeed become viable in the next couple of years. What remains to be seen is how feasible they will be compared to already existing batteries, which will also improve over time. The technology will be there, but which one will win the mainstream is still anybody’s guess.
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
