"Carbon emissions can be minimized through the use of solid-state batteries"
In a significant development for electric vehicle (EV) technology, a study has found that solid state batteries can potentially reduce the carbon footprint of an electric car battery by an additional 24%. This could lead to further reductions in the already decreasing carbon footprint of EV batteries.
Solid state batteries are a type of battery technology that, when made with sustainably sourced materials, have the potential to offer additional environmental benefits beyond the already anticipated reductions. Currently, these batteries are not in widespread use, but several companies and researchers are working on their development.
Notable among these are Volkswagen Group and its subsidiaries PowerCo and Elli, in partnership with QuantumScape. QuantumScape is pioneering solid-state battery technology with a lithium-metal anode and ceramic separator, promising higher energy density, faster charging, and improved safety. Toyota and Samsung are also advancing toward mass production by 2027, using sulfide solid-state electrolytes. Nissan is developing laminated solid-state batteries in a production prototype plant in Japan.
These efforts focus on sustainable manufacturing and improved battery materials to achieve significant climate impact reductions. The study does not specify the exact methods for sourcing the materials for the 39% climate impact reduction, but it does suggest that sustainable sourcing of materials for solid state batteries can lead to a significant reduction in their climate impact.
Solid state batteries store more energy with less material compared to current lithium-ion batteries, making them lighter. This lighter weight can contribute to further reductions in the overall carbon footprint of EVs. The exact carbon footprint reduction when using sustainably sourced materials for solid state batteries is not specified in the study, but it is anticipated that solid state batteries will eventually be cheaper than current lithium-ion batteries.
If solid state batteries are made using the most sustainably sourced materials, they can reduce the climate impact of batteries by an additional 39% compared to current lithium batteries. This could lead to a substantial reduction in the carbon footprint of EVs, making them an even more attractive option for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
However, it's important to note that the study does not provide information on the cost implications of using sustainably sourced materials for solid state batteries, and the exact carbon footprint reduction when using these materials may vary depending on the sourcing methods and processes used.
In conclusion, while the exact methods for sourcing the materials for the 39% climate impact reduction are not specified, the potential for solid state batteries to further reduce the carbon footprint of EVs is promising. As research and development continue, we may see these batteries become a key player in the fight against climate change.
