Articles tagged with "battery-performance"
Lithium batteries could last longer in extreme cold, space with low-temperature electrolytes
Researchers from Chang’an University and Queensland University of Technology have conducted a comprehensive review on improving lithium-ion battery (LIB) performance in extreme cold environments by developing low-temperature (LT) electrolytes. Their work, published in Springer Nature, outlines innovative strategies including lithium salt molecular design, solvent matrix optimization, interfacial engineering additives, and gel-polymer composite electrolytes to maintain battery function at subzero temperatures. The study covers various electrolyte types—ester-based, ether-based, nitrile-based, and gel-polymer systems—highlighting how properties like freezing point and dielectric constant influence lithium-ion solvation and battery performance. Notably, machine learning models trained on over 150,000 molecular candidates have accelerated electrolyte discovery by accurately predicting key properties such as melting point and viscosity. The team emphasizes the role of machine learning-guided formulation strategies that enable high-throughput virtual screening and structure–property relationship predictions, facilitating rapid development of LT electrolytes. These AI-assisted approaches have identified non-fluorinated ethers
energylithium-ion-batterieslow-temperature-electrolytesmachine-learningAI-in-materials-sciencebattery-performancecold-weather-energy-storageMercedes EV battery proves most durable among 28,500 hybrids in tests
A comprehensive study by Germany’s ADAC, in partnership with Austrian battery data firm AVILOO, analyzed over 28,500 battery state-of-health measurements from plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) over six years. The research revealed significant differences in battery durability across brands, with premium automakers like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Volvo outperforming mainstream brands such as Volkswagen, Ford, and Mitsubishi. Mercedes-Benz led the field, maintaining stable battery performance up to 200,000 kilometers (approximately 120,000 miles) with minimal degradation, attributed to superior engineering and advanced battery management systems. Conversely, Mitsubishi’s PHEVs showed notable early battery degradation, although this tended to stabilize over time. Volkswagen and Volvo models demonstrated consistent battery health even under heavy electric use, while BMW’s results varied by model and electric driving frequency. Ford’s PHEVs experienced early capacity drops regardless of usage patterns. Despite brand differences, the study found that most PHEV batteries retain over 80%
energyelectric-vehiclesbattery-performancehybrid-vehiclesbattery-management-systemsautomotive-technologybattery-longevityUS process recovers high-purity lithium from spent EV batteries
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), led by Professor Yan Wang, have developed advancements in solid-state battery technology and lithium recycling that could enhance battery performance and sustainability. They created an iron-doped lithium-indium chloride material that resolves the incompatibility between halide-based solid-state electrolytes and lithium-metal anodes without requiring costly protective layers. This innovation maintains high ionic conductivity and demonstrates impressive long-term stability, with full cells retaining 80% capacity after 300 charge-discharge cycles and symmetric cells operating over 500 hours without degradation—marking a first in the field. In addition, the team developed a safe, scalable recycling method for spent lithium-metal anodes using a self-driven aldol condensation reaction with acetone, producing lithium carbonate with 99.79% purity, surpassing industry standards. The recovered lithium carbonate was successfully used to create new cathode materials exhibiting electrochemical performance comparable to commercial products. This recycling approach offers a practical solution to reduce reliance on lithium mining, lower production
energybattery-technologylithium-recyclingsolid-state-batteriesmaterials-sciencesustainable-energybattery-performanceNew doping helps sodium batteries retain 60% capacity for 300 cycles
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have demonstrated that doping the cathode material of sodium-ion batteries with scandium significantly improves their cycling stability. Specifically, introducing scandium into the P′2 polytype of sodium manganese oxide (Na2/3[Mn1−xScx]O2) cathodes helps maintain structural integrity by altering crystal growth, reducing side reactions with the electrolyte, and enhancing moisture stability. In practical tests, coin-type full cells with 8% scandium doping retained 60% of their capacity after 300 charge-discharge cycles, addressing the common problem of rapid capacity fading caused by Jahn-Teller distortion in layered sodium manganese oxides. This study not only highlights scandium doping as a promising strategy to extend the lifespan and performance of sodium-ion batteries but also provides a broader approach for improving the structural stability of layered metal oxides used in battery applications. While scandium is an expensive metal, the findings suggest its feasibility for developing high-performance, long-life sodium-ion batteries
energysodium-ion-batteriesbattery-materialsscandium-dopingcathode-stabilitybattery-performanceenergy-storage-materialsScientists use ‘radical’ material for 1,500-cycle next-gen battery
Researchers from Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin and the Technical University of Berlin have developed a novel material based on a radical-cationic covalent organic framework (COF) that significantly enhances lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery performance. This new crystalline organic polymer features high porosity, customizable structure, low density, and chemical stability. Crucially, the COF material traps polysulfides—byproducts that typically dissolve and degrade battery life—within its porous structure, preventing their migration and thus extending battery lifespan. The material incorporates tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) radical units that act as catalysts, converting trapped polysulfides back into usable sulfur, which addresses a major limitation of Li-S batteries. Experimental analyses, including solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance and electron spin resonance spectroscopy, demonstrated that the radical cations in the COF facilitate the breaking and reforming of sulfur-sulfur bonds, effectively regenerating the battery’s active material. This innovation allows Li-S batteries to sustain over
energylithium-sulfur-batteriesbattery-materialscovalent-organic-frameworkenergy-storagebattery-performancebattery-lifespanWorld's Highest Tesla Light Show At The Top Of Pike's Peak - CleanTechnica
The article recounts the world’s highest Tesla light show held on August 23, 2025, atop Pikes Peak in Colorado at an elevation of 14,115 feet. This event brought together over 200 Tesla vehicles, setting a new Guinness World Record and showcasing the resilience and performance of electric vehicles in extreme conditions such as high altitude, cold temperatures, and thin air. The Teslas were arranged along the mountain’s winding roads, synchronizing their headlights, taillights, and custom LED displays to music, creating a visually stunning spectacle likened to a futuristic aurora borealis. Despite concerns about participation, the event sold out, reflecting strong community enthusiasm and careful organization by local Tesla clubs. The light show not only highlighted Tesla’s technological capabilities but also emphasized the sense of community among electric vehicle enthusiasts. The event demonstrated that Tesla vehicles could maintain battery performance without significant range loss even under challenging environmental factors. Attendees enjoyed socializing and sharing their passion, while local media coverage helped promote
energyelectric-vehiclesTeslabattery-performanceelectric-mobilityrenewable-energyEV-technologyBreathe lands $21M Series B to predict battery performance
energybattery-performanceelectric-vehiclesautomotive-technologypredictive-modelingsoftware-developmentcharging-strategies