ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) Engineers at the University of Michigan are developing innovative solutions to improve electric vehicle (EV) battery performance during cold weather. Cold temperatures are known to reduce EV range and slow charging times, posing challenges for drivers in colder climates.
In low temperatures, lithium ions within EV batteries move more slowly through the liquid electrolyte, resulting in decreased energy release and reduced range. Charging is also hindered as the ions’ sluggish movement limits the battery’s ability to accept energy. Neil Dasgupta, associate professor of mechanical and materials science engineering at the University of Michigan, compares this phenomenon to spreading cold butter on toast, noting that “it just becomes more resistant at low temperatures.”
To address these issues, University of Michigan researchers are exploring new battery designs that facilitate faster ion movement and enable rapid charging in cold conditions. Additionally, they are investigating alternative battery chemistries, such as solid-state batteries that do not rely on liquid electrolytes, which could offer improved performance in low temperatures.
Automakers are also actively seeking solutions to mitigate cold weather impacts on EVs. General Motors, for example, has been conducting tests in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to assess how cold temperatures affect battery range. These tests aim to inform battery and heat management adjustments in current models and guide the development of future vehicles.
Dasgupta anticipates that these advancements will transition from research labs to commercial vehicles within the next two to five years. He emphasizes the global effort to enhance battery performance, stating, “There’s really a global race for increasing the performance of these batteries.”
As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, these engineering efforts are crucial for ensuring that EVs remain reliable and efficient, even in challenging weather conditions.
