Driving Electric Mobility: Classification and Application Perspectives of Battery Technologies

The rapid pace of the electric vehicle (EV) adoption has increased the importance of high-performance, safety and cost-effective battery technologies. Even with significant advancements, no single battery chemistry can satisfy the ever-increasing demands for low cost, environmental sustainability, rapid charging, thermal stability, high energy density and extended cycle life. This poses a critical problem to researchers and manufacturers in choosing and optimizing battery systems in various use in EVs. In this paper, a systematic and comparative review of prominent battery technologies utilized in electric vehicles, such as lead-acid, nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), lithium-ion (Li-ion) variants of nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) and lithium iron phosphate (LFP) as well as new solid-state and sodium-ion batteries are discussed. The comparative metrics are key evaluation parameters, which include the energy density, power density, cycle life, charging characteristics, safety performance, thermal behaviour, cost factors and material sustainability. A performance-based evaluation system is created to evaluate the trade-offs between the various chemistries and their applicability to various EV types such as hybrid, passenger and commercial vehicles. However, there are still problems with end-of-life management, thermal runaway and reliance on raw materials. Emerging technologies like solid-state and sodium-ion batteries have potential. In order to support the next generation of electric mobility, this work provides a thorough technological foundation for battery selection with an emphasis on material innovation, battery management systems and sustainable lifespan approaches.