Ever since the advent of electric vehicles and the incorporation of sustainability in operations, the use of batteries has expanded. Batteries are now used to power vehicles entirely. However, this puts strain on the batteries and for a smooth execution, it is to be ensured that these batteries are powered enough to support the machines and do not rely on toxic materials to be functional.
Therefore, there has been an increase in research and development in this area of technology. Scientists and researchers are finding ways to minimize the damage and exertion on batteries by bringing more efficient and effective solutions. One of the main aims is to reduce or completely eliminate the reliance on batteries on heavy metals.
A Chinese company called SVTOL has announced that it will soon start producing cobalt-free batteries. This announcement was reported in Engadget. This is because conventional lithium-ion batteries are not proving to be as efficient and environmentally friendly as they were supposed to be. It relies on elements like cobalt and metals like this are already depleting. In addition, the areas where they are mined violate human labor rights tremendously.
This is one of the reasons why Tesla had also started its close-loop battery system. It had recently announced that its batteries can recycle 92 percent of its own minerals. IBM and Panasonic are also taking the same measures.
SVTOL exhibited its 82.5KWh capacity power pack in a Great Wall Motors car at this year’s Chengdu Motor Show. The battery enables 373 miles (600 km) of range on a single charge and it allows a car to go from zero to 60 mph (100 km/h) in less than five seconds. The company states that it is ready for mass production and will soon be taking over the Chinese EV market.