Lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles: performances of 100 Ah cells

Among the new electrochemical systems, lithium ion using a liquid electrolyte appears to be one of the most promising technologies for the mid-term requirements of electric vehicles (EVs). Thanks to a dedicated research program over the past five years, SAFT is developing a complete EV battery system, including thermal management and electronic control system. Electrochemical cells of about 100 Ah, using LiNiO2 and graphite, have been built and tested. They show performances of 125 Wh/kg and 265 Wh/l at the 1-h rate, at the beginning of life. Specific power obtained along the complete discharge fulfill the requirements for EV application. A 20 kWh 220 V assembly was built, including the associated electronic control equipment and air thermal regulation.