Do EVs Use Lithium Batteries?

Do EVs Use Lithium Batteries?

At A Glance...

Yes, EVs most commonly use lithium batteries for their long battery life and efficiency. In this article, we will discuss why electric cars use lithium ion batteries, and the benefits of doing so.

9 Reasons Lithium Batteries Are Used For EVs

High Energy Density for Long Ranges

Lithium-ion EV batteries provide high energy density, meaning they can store a lot of energy in a compact, lightweight design. This enables electric vehicles (EVs) like the Nissan Leaf to achieve longer ranges on a single charge without excessive bulk or weight. 

Higher battery capacity also reduces the need for frequent recharging, making electric cars more practical compared to those with lead-acid batteries or older technologies.

Efficient Energy Storage and Performance

Lithium-ion technology is known for its efficient energy storage and power delivery, enabling quick acceleration and strong performance. The efficiency of lithium-ion batteries makes them particularly well-suited to electric car batteries that must perform reliably across different driving conditions. This is especially important as EVs aim to provide a comparable experience to traditional combustion engines used in petrol or diesel vehicles.

Fast Charging Capability

Lithium-ion battery packs can handle faster charging speeds than other types, meaning shorter charging stops for EV drivers. With ongoing improvements in fast-charging infrastructure, EVs are increasingly capable of providing more convenient and rapid charging cycles, which appeals to drivers accustomed to the quick refuelling of petrol or diesel cars.

Extended Lifespan with Multiple Charging Cycles

EV battery cells are designed to last through many charging cycles, making lithium-ion batteries a long-term solution for electric vehicles (EVs). They can endure years of charging and discharging without significant degradation in battery capacity, which is essential for both all-electric and hybrid cars. This durability also contributes to lower replacement costs over the vehicle’s life.

Low Self-Discharge Rate

Lithium-ion electric car batteries have a low self-discharge rate, retaining their charge well even when not in use. This makes them ideal for EVs, as drivers can leave their cars parked for extended periods without worrying about energy drain. For those transitioning from fossil fuels to electric options, this feature enhances the overall convenience of EVs.

Lightweight and Compact Design

Lithium-ion battery packs are significantly lighter than traditional options like lead-acid batteries, which helps make electric vehicles (EVs) more efficient. This lower weight allows EVs to match or even exceed the efficiency of cars powered by combustion engines. Weight reduction is especially crucial in small to mid-sized EVs, which need to balance space, energy, and weight effectively to achieve optimal performance.

High Power-to-Weight Ratio for Performance

Lithium-ion battery cells provide high power relative to their weight, enabling quick acceleration and robust performance. This is especially beneficial for drivers of electric vehicles (EVs) who want a responsive driving experience similar to traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. The power-to-weight ratio is also advantageous for high-performance EV models that compete with or outperform combustion-based cars.

Scalability in Large Battery Packs

Lithium-ion batteries can be organised into large, scalable battery packs for EVs without compromising efficiency. This flexibility allows manufacturers to fit batteries into different models, from compact cars to large SUVs, and manage battery cells in configurations that maximise energy storage. This adaptability is vital as electric car designs evolve to meet a range of consumer needs.

Ongoing Advancements in Technology

Research into solid-state batteries is making strides, promising even higher energy densities and faster charging capabilities for future EV batteries. Although solid-state batteries are still in development, their potential to improve battery capacity and charging cycles could further enhance the practicality of electric vehicles (EVs). These advancements are part of the industry’s push toward sustainable, long-term alternatives to fossil fuels and combustion engines.

The Benefits Of Lithium Batteries For Electric Cars

Lithium-ion batteries are favoured for electric vehicles (EVs) due to their combination of high energy density, long lifespan, efficient charging, and lightweight design. They provide a powerful, efficient alternative to fossil fuel engines, aligning with the automotive industry’s goal to reduce reliance on petrol or diesel.

When disposing of these batteries, it’s important to use a professional recycling business. At Lithium Cycle, we specialise in recycling lithium batteries for businesses nationwide. This includes lithium batteries used for electric cars, e-bikes, e-scooters, solar power systems and many other products.

Aviva Urges Businesses to Mitigate Lithium-Ion Battery Risks

Aviva Urges Businesses to Mitigate Lithium-Ion Battery Risks

At A Glance...

Aviva is calling on businesses to take proactive steps in managing the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. Recent survey data reveals that these batteries are crucial to daily operations for 95% of businesses, with one-third (33%) of respondents labelling them as “essential” or “critical.”

However, the survey also highlights that many businesses are neglecting basic safety measures for handling, storing, charging, and disposing of lithium-ion batteries. Alarming findings show that 45% of respondents do not conduct regular inspections for damage, 45% use non-certified chargers, and 46% admit to allowing batteries to overcharge.

Lithium-ion batteries are found in everyday devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, power tools, e-bikes, and e-scooters and are increasingly essential in commercial environments. 

For example, they power portable tools on construction sites, battery-driven forklifts in warehouses, and fleets of electric vehicles for transport.

These batteries offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional options, and businesses clearly recognise their operational value. However, as Chris Andrews, Director of Aviva Risk Management Solutions (ARMS), notes, “this new technology doesn’t come without risks.”

Understanding the Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries contain a mix of chemicals that can elevate fire risks, often due to physical damage, manufacturing defects, unauthorised modifications, or improper charging. 

These issues can trigger “thermal runaway”—an uncontrollable rise in temperature that can result in fires that are difficult to control or extinguish.

Charging practices also contribute to battery-related risks. About half of respondents report using certified chargers (55%) and avoiding overcharging (54%). Fewer businesses ensure that charging areas are well-ventilated (42%) or non-flammable (38%).

Proper Disposal and Training Are Essential

Because of the risks, lithium-ion batteries should not be thrown away in regular trash or recycled with other battery types. When disposing of lithium batteries, you should contact a professional team to ensure safe protocols take place.

At Lithium Cycle, we specialise in collecting and recycling lithium batteries for businesses, ensuring safe and secure disposal methods. With our help, businesses can ensure they are acting safely whilst following UK regulations and guidelines surrounding battery waste.

Solidion Technology Unveils Breakthrough in Fast-Charging Battery Solutions

Solidion Technology Unveils Fast-Charging Lithium Battery Solution

At A Glance...

Solidion Technology Advancement Achieves Full Charges In As Little As 5 minutes

Solidion Technology, a leader in advanced battery technology, has announced a major advancement in battery design, enabling a wide array of lithium batteries to achieve full charges in as little as 5 minutes—without the high costs often associated with such innovations. The business aims to bring this groundbreaking technology to market within the next two to three years.

A persistent obstacle in the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has been “range anxiety”—the concern that an EV might run out of battery power mid-trip, especially since recharging generally takes far longer than fueling a traditional gasoline car. This concern is intensified by the longer charging times required at lower temperatures.

In response, Solidion’s engineering team has developed and patented a unique system and method that allows rapid charging of battery cells or packs under any weather condition. This new approach protects the battery, providing a safe operational mode that minimises the risk of thermal runaway.

How Does The System Work?

The system centres around a graphene-based heat spreader that facilitates rapid heating of the battery during the charging process. It also incorporates a cooling component that activates while the battery is powering a device, such as an EV. 

This dynamic switching between heating and cooling during charging and discharging improves battery safety and performance. Graphene, with its exceptionally high thermal conductivity (5,300 W/m-K), far outperforms traditional materials like copper, which is both less efficient at 410 W/m-K and significantly heavier.

Who Are Solidion Technology?

Solidion Technology specialises in the production of advanced battery materials and next-generation batteries for applications across land, air, and sea. The company is recognised globally for its innovation in high-capacity anodes and solid-state battery technologies. 

Solidion’s batteries promise extended EV range, enhanced safety, cost efficiency, and an environmentally conscious approach by using sulphur and other readily available materials instead of costly nickel and cobalt.

We Recycle Lithium EV Batteries

At Lithium Cycle, we are dedicated to the responsible recycling of lithium EV batteries. By repurposing valuable materials such as lithium, nickel, and cobalt, we reduce waste and minimise the need for new raw materials, contributing to a cleaner, circular economy. 

Our reuse and recycling process not only helps meet the growing demand for lithium but also supports environmental stewardship by reducing the carbon footprint of battery production. Our team aims to make EV technology more sustainable from production through end-of-life, ensuring that each battery produced can contribute positively to a greener future.

The Arkansas Lithium Discovery

The Arkansas Lithium Discovery

At A Glance...

5 – 19 Million Tons of Lithium Found In Southern Arkansas

A significant discovery of lithium in Arkansas has recently garnered attention due to its potential to transform the lithium supply chain. 

It is said that there may be 5.1 million to 19 million tons of lithium in the Smackover Formation brines in southern Arkansas, said researchers at the United States Geological Survey. This number was calculated using a machine-learning model and geological information that predicted maps of lithium concentration.

The discovery, if recoverable, could far exceed the projected world demand for EV batteries in 2030.

“We estimate there is enough dissolved lithium present in that region to replace U.S. imports of lithium and more,” said Katherine Knierim, a hydrologist and the study’s principal researcher.

Lithium Demand and Arkansas Findings: What Does This Mean?

The increasing demand for lithium, driven primarily by the rise of electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, has intensified the search for local sources of this crucial element. 

Currently, most lithium is sourced from countries like Australia and Chile, and the U.S. is heavily reliant on imports. However, the discovery in Arkansas could reduce U.S. dependence on foreign lithium and provide a critical domestic source for battery production.

Arkansas’ lithium is found in brine reservoirs deep underground. Companies like Standard Lithium are pioneering direct lithium extraction (DLE) technologies, which are seen as more sustainable because they use existing brine-processing infrastructure while reducing land disturbance and water usage​.

We Recycle Lithium Batteries For Businesses

As the global demand for lithium surges, recycling lithium-ion batteries has become an essential component of sustainable energy practices. Recycling can reduce pressure on lithium supply, minimise waste, and support the growing battery demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. 

Many businesses are stepping up efforts to recycle old batteries, recognising the importance of closing the loop on this critical resource.

This recent discovery and the subsequent developments could position Arkansas as a key player in the future of lithium supply, particularly in the race to meet the needs of the electric vehicle market.

Why Is Energy Storage Beneficial To Sustainability?

Why Is Energy Storage Beneficial To Sustainability?

At A Glance...

The global energy storage market almost tripled in 2023. Energy storage is a game-changer for sustainability. Why? Becuase it helps us make the most of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, which aren’t always available when we need them most. 

The sun doesn’t shine at night, and wind can be unpredictable, but energy storage systems allow us to store excess energy when it’s plentiful and use it later when demand is high.

By storing this energy, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and stabilise electricity grids with a cleaner, more reliable power supply. It also helps balance energy loads, preventing waste during times of surplus and lowering overall energy costs by reducing the need for peak-time electricity from traditional sources.

Energy storage systems also support a more resilient grid, providing backup power during outages or emergencies, making sure that even if the grid fails, there’s a stored energy supply ready to step in. This is particularly crucial for critical infrastructure like hospitals, data centres, and emergency services.

4 Reasons Energy Storage Benefits Sustainability

Maximises Renewable Energy Use

Energy storage allows us to capture and store excess power generated from solar and wind sources, making clean energy available on back-up.

Reduces Fossil Fuel Reliance

By storing renewable energy, we can reduce the need for backup power from fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions and promoting a cleaner power supply.

Stabilises Electricity Grid

Energy storage helps smooth out fluctuations in supply and demand, ensuring consistent power availability. This reduces strain on the grid and prevents wasteful energy spikes.

Supports Energy Reliance

During power outages or emergencies, energy storage systems can step in to provide backup power, making communities more self-reliant and less vulnerable to disruptions in traditional energy supplies.

Materials Can Be Recycled

When it comes to energy storage, the concern about battery waste is real, but there’s good news: batteries can be recycled! Specifically, lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in energy storage systems, can be broken down and valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel can be recovered. This helps minimise waste, reduce the need for new resource extraction, and cut down on the environmental impact of mining.

Recycling batteries also ensures that hazardous materials don’t end up in landfills, which protects ecosystems from potential contamination. Companies like ours provide specialised recycling services to responsibly dispose of these batteries and give them a second life. 

So while batteries do have a limited lifespan, their materials don’t have to go to waste—they can be reused in new energy storage systems, helping create a more sustainable cycle.

Solid-State Battery Technology

Solid-State Battery Technology

At A Glance...

As global industries continue to push for clean energy solutions, advancements in battery technology play a pivotal role in the transition toward a sustainable future. 

One of the most groundbreaking innovations is solid-state battery technology. Unlike the conventional liquid-state lithium-ion batteries that have dominated the energy storage space for decades, solid-state batteries promise greater efficiency.

Solid-state battery applications in the electric vehicle sector are forecast to grow exponentially in the next decade, reaching a market size of 4.3 billion U.S. dollars by 2032.

What Are Solid-State Batteries?

Solid-state batteries are a next-generation energy storage solution that replaces the liquid or gel electrolytes found in conventional lithium-ion batteries with a solid electrolyte. This seemingly small change has profound impacts on the performance and safety of the battery.

Key characteristics of solid-state batteries include:

  • Increased Energy Density: Solid-state batteries can hold more energy in the same space compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. This means longer-lasting power for devices such as electric vehicles (EVs) and consumer electronics.
  • Improved Safety: The use of a solid electrolyte reduces the risk of leakage and overheating, which are significant safety concerns with lithium-ion batteries that use flammable liquid electrolytes.
  • Extended Battery Life: Due to reduced degradation over time, solid-state batteries could potentially last much longer than their lithium-ion counterparts, making them more durable and cost-effective in the long run.

Solid-State and Lithium Batteries

One of the most significant differences between conventional lithium-ion and solid-state batteries is the composition of materials used. While lithium is still a crucial component in solid-state batteries, other materials, such as advanced ceramics or glass electrolytes, may also be integrated into the design.

Solid-state batteries are designed to last longer and degrade more slowly than traditional lithium-ion batteries. This extended lifespan will lead to longer intervals between battery replacements, potentially reducing the volume of battery waste generated annually. While this could reduce short-term demand for recycling, it could lead to more valuable materials being recovered when solid-state batteries eventually reach the end of their life cycle.

How Battery Energy Storage Systems Work

How Battery Energy Storage Systems Work

At A Glance...

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) work by storing energy to be released for later use. These energy storage systems often use lithium-ion batteries to store the energy and release it when required. 

They’re the go-to solution for storing energy from renewable sources like solar and wind because they’re efficient, reliable, and capable of storing large amounts of stored electricity.

The electricity gets stored in these giant, rechargeable batteries and is released to power homes, businesses, or even entire electricity grids when demand spikes or during a power outage. New battery energy storage system (BESS) installations worldwide added up to 74 gigawatt-hours in 2023, up from 27 gigawatt-hours a year earlier.

What Are Battery Energy Storage Systems Used For?

Security Monitoring

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are used to support critical monitoring systems like security systems, smoke detectors, and even medical equipment. These systems require a reliable, uninterrupted power supply to function effectively, and that’s where battery storage comes in. 

For security systems, BESS ensures that surveillance cameras, alarms, and monitoring devices continue to operate even during a power outage. Since security systems are crucial for protecting businesses, having a backup power supply in the form of a battery is essential to avoid any downtime.

Medical Equipment

For medical equipment, especially in hospitals or for at-home patient care, reliable power is critical. BESS can store energy supplies and kick in during emergencies, providing a dependable energy source until regular power is restored.

Solar Energy

Imagine a sunny day when your solar panels are producing more energy than your house can use. Instead of letting that energy go to waste, a BESS allows you to store energy for use later—like when the sun goes down or clouds roll in. It’s the ultimate energy storage solution for ensuring you have a consistent power supply, even when your renewable energy sources aren’t producing at full capacity.

Electricity

On a large scale, BESS are used by utility companies to keep the grid running smoothly. When there’s too much energy being produced, say, during high winds or sunny days, the excess energy gets stored in these systems. Then, during peak hours when energy demand shoots up, the battery storage system releases its stored electricity back into the grid. This process not only prevents waste but also helps lower overall energy costs by providing electricity when it’s needed most. In emergency situations like a power outage, BESS can be lifesavers by ensuring backup energy supplies are available to keep everything running.

Why Are Lithium-Ion Batteries Used For Energy Storage Systems?

So, why do we love lithium-ion batteries for energy storage? Well, for starters, they have a high energy density, meaning they can pack a lot of power into a relatively small space. This makes them perfect for both residential and large scale battery storage applications. Another major plus is that they’re incredibly efficient at cycling energy—charging and discharging—without losing much of their capacity. That means they can store electricity and release it over and over again, making them a reliable choice for both short-term and long-term energy storage.

Lithium-ion batteries are also pretty versatile, able to handle both the short bursts of energy needed to smooth out fluctuations in electricity grids, as well as the longer, sustained output. 

Since they’re commonly used in everything from solar and wind energy systems to electric vehicles, their production has scaled up, making them more affordable.

Can You Recycle These Batteries?

Absolutely! And this is where we come in. While lithium-ion batteries are fantastic for storing energy, they do eventually reach the end of their lifecycle. But instead of ending up in a landfill, these batteries can—and should—be recycled. 

By recycling lithium-ion batteries used in energy storage systems, valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel can be recovered and reused to make new batteries. This not only reduces the environmental impact of mining for new resources but also keeps hazardous materials out of our ecosystems.

At Lithium Cycle, we specialise in recycling batteries from energy storage systems, ensuring that the life of your energy storage solution doesn’t end when the battery does. 

Do Hybrid Cars Have Normal Batteries?

Do Hybrid Cars Have Normal Batteries?

At A Glance...

Modern hybrid cars use lithium-ion batteries and nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries. 

The type of battery used in a hybrid car really depends on the make and model. For instance, if you’re driving a plug-in hybrid like the Toyota Prius Prime or Chevrolet Volt, chances are you’re benefiting from a large li-ion battery pack under the hood. Why? Li-ion batteries have a higher energy density compared to NiMH batteries, which means they can store more electrical energy in a smaller, lighter package. 

This allows plug-in hybrids to go further on electric power before the gasoline engine has to kick in to recharge the battery or help drive the car.

On the other hand, some hybrids, especially older models, rely on NiMH batteries. These batteries may not be as energy-dense, but they’re tough, reliable, and get the job done when it comes to powering the electric motor. They’ve been around longer, and for many hybrid cars, they’re still a solid choice.

Why Do Hybrid Cars Use These Battery Types?

Hybrid cars are all about efficiency, and these battery types—whether lithium-ion or nickel-metal-hydride—help maximise fuel economy. By storing and releasing electrical energy when needed, hybrid batteries allow the car to seamlessly switch between gasoline and electric power. This reduces fuel consumption and makes hybrids incredibly fuel efficient.

A key reason hybrids use these specific battery types is because of regenerative braking. When you brake, the car captures that wasted energy and uses it to recharge the battery, boosting your efficiency even more. It’s like magic—except it’s all science! High-voltage batteries are essential for this process, as they can store the electrical energy needed to keep things running without relying solely on gasoline.

In addition to improving efficiency, both li-ion and NiMH batteries are durable enough to handle the frequent charging and discharging cycles that come with hybrid driving. This means that while the battery may seem to be working hard in the background, it’s built to last.

How Do I Dispose Of Hybrid Vehicle Batteries?

One thing that often gets overlooked is what happens when these batteries reach the end of their life. And yes, they do eventually run out of juice—though they last longer than many people think. So, how long do hybrid batteries last? Well, it can vary depending on the make, model, and how the vehicle is driven, but many hybrid batteries are built to last anywhere from 8 to 15 years.

When the time comes to replace that trusty hybrid battery, don’t just throw it in your general rubbish. Hybrid batteries are recyclable, and that’s where we come in. If you’ve got an old li-ion from your hybrid or electric vehicle, we can collect and recycle it responsibly. 

By recycling, you’re helping ensure that valuable materials are recovered and reused, and you’re keeping toxic chemicals out of landfills. Plus, it means fewer resources are needed to produce new batteries, making the entire process a little bit greener.

Remember, these batteries are high-voltage powerhouses, so handling and disposing of them properly is crucial. Always recycle through certified programs to make sure you’re doing your part in maintaining a sustainable cycle of battery production and disposal.

Lithium-Ion Battery Statistics 2024

Lithium-Ion Battery Statistics

At A Glance...

The lithium-ion battery is used across the globe to power a range of products including electric vehicles, solar energy storage systems, e bikes and various small and large appliances. 

As we see the rising demand for lithium ion batteries, our team has explored some key statistics relating to their growth, environmental impact, and capacity. 

6 Lithium Ion Battery Statistics For 2024

The vast majority of lithium-ion batteries—about 77% of the world’s supply—are manufactured in China

Let’s start with the big one—China. It’s no secret that China is a manufacturing giant, but did you know that it produces a whopping 77% of the world’s lithium-ion batteries? That’s right, more than three-quarters of the global supply comes from the country.

Whether it’s batteries for electric vehicles or solar panels, the Chinese lithium-ion battery industry is cranking out power cells at an unmatched pace.

For manufacturing the Tesla Model 3, holding an 80 kWh lithium-ion battery, CO2 emissions would range between 2400 kg (almost two and a half metric tons) and 16,000 kg (16 metric tons).

To build a Tesla Model 3, which houses an 80 kWh lithium-ion battery, the CO2 emissions can range anywhere from 2,400 kg to 16,000 kg. That’s up to 16 metric tons of carbon emissions just to produce one of these beauties! Sure, the emissions from driving electric cars are a fraction of traditional vehicles, but the battery production process still packs a punch.

The global lithium-ion battery market size was estimated at USD 54.4 billion in 2023 and is projected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.3% from 2024 to 2030.

Now, let’s talk about money—specifically, the global lithium-ion battery market. In 2023, the market size was pegged at USD 54.4 billion, and get this—it’s expected to grow at a mind-boggling 20.3% annual rate through 2030. 

That’s a pretty solid growth curve, driven by the surge in electric vehicles, renewable energy, and energy storage needs. In short, we’re just getting started, folks.

Asia-Pacific dominated the lithium-ion battery market with a market share of 48.45% in 2023.

The Asia-Pacific region is leading the charge (pun intended) when it comes to dominating the lithium-ion battery market. 

In 2023, the region held an impressive 48.45% market share. With countries like China and South Korea ramping up production, and Australia mining more lithium than ever, the Asia-Pacific is holding down the fort as the centre of battery production.

In 2023, Australia was the world leader in terms of lithium mine production, with an estimated output of 86,000 metric tons. 

Speaking of mining, Australia is absolutely crushing it when it comes to lithium production. In 2023, they were the global leader, mining an estimated 86,000 metric tons of lithium. That’s a whole lot of lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) and lithium iron phosphate (LFP) just waiting to be turned into high-energy-density batteries. 

With the United States and other nations pushing for more clean energy, you can bet that demand for Australian lithium will keep climbing. 

Approximately 15 tonnes of CO2 are emitted for every tonne of lithium extracted.

But here’s the kicker—lithium extraction has its own environmental toll. For every tonne of lithium extracted, about 15 tonnes of CO2 are emitted into the atmosphere. 

That’s not great news for our carbon footprint, especially considering the rising demand for li-ion batteries in passenger cars and other applications. 

It’s a tough balancing act—meeting the growing need for clean energy while minimising the impact of extracting the raw materials that make it possible.

Dispose Of Lithium-Ion Batteries Safely

In a world where we’re constantly searching for better energy sources and ways to harness renewable energy, lithium-ion batteries are the key to unlocking a sustainable future. Their battery chemistry—whether it’s oxide NCA or lithium iron phosphate LFP—allows us to store and use energy more efficiently. As the world transitions to more electric passenger cars and clean energy systems, the importance of lithium-ion batteries can’t be overstated.

If you are a business based in the UK looking for sustainable solutions, we are here to help. Our team is trained to safely handle lithium batteries, ensuring they are transported to licensed treatment and recycling facilities. Here, the materials can be recycled effectively into new products, diverting waste from causing harm to both human health and the environment.

The Difference Between Plug In Hybrid and Battery Electric Vehicles​

The Difference Between Plug In Hybrid and Battery Electric Vehicles​

At A Glance...

The main difference between plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) lies in their power sources, drivetrain technology, and how they generate and use energy. 

Both technologies offer a pathway toward greener transportation, but they differ significantly in their approach to energy use and driving range.

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles Vs Battery Electric Vehicles

Power Source

PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle):

  • Has both a battery and a gasoline engine.
  • The vehicle can run on electricity stored in its battery, but when the battery depletes, it switches to the internal combustion engine (ICE), which runs on gasoline.

BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle):

  • Powered entirely by electricity.
  • It has no gasoline engine, and all of its propulsion comes from a large battery that powers an electric motor.

Charging

PHEV:

  • Can be charged by plugging into an external power source (like a charging station) to recharge the battery.
  • However, it doesn’t rely solely on electric charging since it has a gasoline engine for backup, offering flexibility in fueling.

BEV:

  • Must be charged via an external electric charging station or home charger since it only runs on electricity.
  • Requires frequent charging, depending on the vehicle’s range and usage.

Driving Range

PHEV:

  • Typically has a shorter all-electric range (usually between 20–50 miles or 32–80 km) before the gasoline engine kicks in.
  • After the battery is depleted, the gasoline engine extends the range significantly, similar to traditional gas cars.

BEV:

  • Has a longer all-electric range (typically between 150–400 miles or 240–640 km, depending on the model).
  • Once the battery runs out, the car must be recharged, as it has no other backup fuel source.

The Environmental Benefits Of PHEVs and BEVs

When it comes to environmental benefits, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) both have their own eco-friendly charm. However, they get there in slightly different ways—kind of like two siblings trying to outdo each other at being “the responsible one.”

Let’s start with PHEVs, the middle ground vehicle that’s trying to have it all. They offer a nifty solution for those of us who aren’t quite ready to commit to full electric life but want to make a solid effort toward reducing our carbon footprint. 

When you drive a PHEV, you can feel pretty smug about the fact that you’re running on pure electric power for your shorter trips—errands, daily commutes, and grocery store runs. 

During these moments, you’re producing no emissions, and that feels pretty good. Then, when the battery runs low, the gasoline engine kicks in. Sure, it’s not as green as sticking to electricity the whole time, but it’s still significantly more efficient than a traditional car. The best part? If you’re on a long road trip, you won’t have to nervously eyeball the battery level while trying to figure out how far away the next charging station is—there’s gasoline as backup, making it a win-win.

Now, BEVs, on the other hand, run completely on electricity, meaning you can wave goodbye to tailpipe emissions altogether. 

If you’re driving a BEV, you’re not burning any gasoline, which means you’re not contributing to air pollution. Picture yourself gliding silently through town in your sleek electric car, knowing that you’re doing your part to cut down on smog and harmful greenhouse gases. It’s like giving the environment a big, clean energy hug every time you get behind the wheel.

We Recycle Lithium Batteries From Vehicles

At Lithium Cycle, we specialise in recycling lithium batteries from electric vehicles. This helps businesses maintain their green credentials each mile they take. Our team is passionate about ensuring battery waste is recycled into new products, pushing for a circular approach whilst minimising harm to the planet. If you generate battery waste and are looking for a sustainable solution, simply get in touch with our team today.