Summary
- A European consortium developed a cobalt-free lithium-ion battery system for EVs
- The COBRA project had a budget of €12 million and was co-financed by the European Commission
- The system consists of 96 cobalt-free lithium-ion cells and incorporates sensors, algorithms, and communications
- Made of treated wood and recycled aluminum, the system offers weight advantages and enhanced safety features
- The Catalonia Institute for Energy Research is the lead partner of the project, with a focus on innovative battery management system design.
Article
A European consortium consisting of 18 entities from the automotive, research, and technology sectors has developed a new cobalt-free lithium-ion battery system for electric vehicles (EVs). The COBRA project, with a budget of €12 million co-financed by the European Commission, has successfully demonstrated the new system after four years of development. This system incorporates sensors, algorithms, and communications to enhance safety, control, and efficiency.
The newly developed battery system is currently at TRL 6 on the technology maturity scale. However, it is expected that in the coming years, it will advance to TRL 9, indicating successful testing in a real environment. By 2030, some of the innovations from this project can be applied to produce more sustainable and efficient batteries for EVs. The system’s materials include treated wood and recycled aluminum, offering weight advantages compared to other battery designs. It is comprised of 96 cobalt-free lithium-ion cells, with sensors monitoring temperature, deformation, impedance, pressure, and internal reactions.
The Catalonia Institute for Energy Research (IREC) is the lead partner in the COBRA project. Lluis Trilla, Senior Researcher at IREC, highlighted the most interesting feature of the project – the innovative design of the battery management system. This system incorporates internal wireless communications, executing algorithms and advanced models within the battery to enhance its performance and efficiency. The advancements made in the COBRA project are poised to revolutionize the EV battery industry and pave the way for more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions.
The use of cobalt-free materials in the battery system is a significant step towards reducing the environmental impact of EVs. By incorporating sensors, algorithms, and communications, the new system not only improves safety and efficiency but also enhances control over the battery’s operations. With the advancements made in the COBRA project, the future of EV batteries looks promising, with potential applications for more sustainable and efficient battery production by 2030.
The weight advantages of the new battery system, combined with its innovative design and use of environmentally friendly materials, make it a competitive option for the EV market. The incorporation of wireless communications and advanced algorithms within the battery management system sets this project apart from other developments in the industry. With the potential to reach TRL 9 in the near future, the COBRA project showcases the importance of collaborative research and innovation in creating a more sustainable future for electric vehicles and energy storage solutions.
In conclusion, the COBRA project’s development of a cobalt-free lithium-ion battery system for EVs represents a significant milestone in the industry. With a focus on sustainability, efficiency, and safety, the project has successfully demonstrated a new system that combines innovative design with advanced technologies. The contributions of the consortium members from various sectors have been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of battery technology and paving the way for a greener future in transportation. By 2030, these innovations are expected to lead to more sustainable and efficient battery production practices, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of electric vehicles and energy storage solutions.
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