Summary
- General Motors is exploring a new method for configuring prismatic battery cells to enhance cooling capabilities
- The new method involves stacking layers in an inverted "U" shape to increase thermal conductivity and improve heat dissipation
- The inverted "U" stack also slows down the spread of heat within the cell, resulting in lower peak temperatures and potentially reducing the need for a thick thermal response barrier
- Despite potential benefits, the new cell format may present manufacturing challenges
- General Motors is considering various cell formats in its EV production, including pouch, cylindrical, and prismatic cells, with an emphasis on flexibility and improved cooling properties
Article
General Motors is exploring a new way to configure prismatic battery cells in order to enhance their cooling characteristics. The automaker has filed a patent with the United States Patent and Trademark Office detailing a design that involves stacking layers in an inverted “U” shape. This design is intended to improve heat dissipation by increasing thermal conductivity in both the horizontal and vertical directions within the cell. This, in turn, could potentially make cooling systems more effective when used in a battery pack.
The inverted “U” stack design also aims to slow down the spread of heat within the cell, even if it overheats. As a result, the peak temperature is expected to remain lower and be more contained, creating a 50% thinner thermal response barrier. This could help in reducing cell size in future designs or increasing energy density by packing more active material into the cell. Additionally, the reduced cooling requirements may allow for smaller battery pack sizes.
While the proposed cell format has potential benefits, it also presents manufacturing challenges due to its complexity. This could be a reason why major battery manufacturers have not attempted this design so far. General Motors, however, appears to be moving towards using various cell formats, including pouch, cylindrical, and prismatic, in its production electric vehicles. The company has emphasized the importance of flexibility in its battery cell choices and has explored other unconventional cell shapes in previous patent filings to improve cooling.
In comparison, other automakers such as Tesla, Lucid, and Rivian have focused on using cylindrical cells in their electric vehicles, citing advantages in range and efficiency. BMW is also planning to utilize cylindrical cells in its upcoming Neue Klasse EVs, which are expected to feature significantly increased energy density. The use of different cell formats by various automakers reflects the ongoing experimentation in battery technology to achieve optimal performance and efficiency in electric vehicles.
Overall, General Motors’ exploration of an inverted “U” stack design for prismatic battery cells represents a novel approach to improving cooling characteristics and overall performance. While there are potential benefits in terms of heat dissipation, reduced peak temperatures, and increased energy density, challenges in manufacturing may need to be addressed before widespread adoption. As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, advancements in battery technology will play a crucial role in driving innovation and improving the overall driving experience for consumers.
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