New battery that works even at -70 ° C: is it ideal for an electric car?

At low temperatures, the performance of conventional batteries often decreases due to reduced mobility of ions in the electrolyte, the material that connects the two terminals. In practical terms, this means that electric cars use between 10 and 30 percent of their driving range in very cold winter weather. He could lose.

Fast charging and high energy density

Researchers from China's Zhejiang University claim to have solved the problem. The electrolyte they developed must not only operate at very low temperatures, but also retain a high energy density and can be charged quickly. This is what scientists say in a study published in a specialized journal nature.

according to South China Morning Newspaper (SCMP), which spoke to scientists, says a battery made of this material can be charged to 80 percent within ten minutes at extremely low temperatures. According to scientists, the material can also be used in sodium and potassium ion batteries.

Not right away, anyway

However, challenges remain before the technology reaches the market. It remains to be verified whether the electrolyte can work effectively in a conventional battery design. After all, the Nature paper only talks about “guidelines” for designing such batteries. So the team has not yet created a business model. Potentially high production costs could also be a barrier, researchers acknowledge.

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