Lithium-ion Batteries for Electric Vehicles

The lithium-ion batteries are integral part in all the Indian Space vehicles including the PSLV, GSLV and satellites. The indigenous batteries can perform for 10 to 15 years only through multiple recharges. Hence, lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles can be a better option as well.

What is Indigenous technology?

Indigenous technology means, technology developed by people or organization who belong to particular place naturally.

Thiruvanathapuram-based Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) has developed four types of lithium-ion batteries — 1.5 Ampere (Ah), 5 Ah, 50 Ah and 100 Ah. Of these, 1.5 Ah and 50 Ah have been used for space applications and 5 Ah and 100 Ah are ready for use in space applications.

Use in two-wheeler Electric vehicles

50 Ah cells are successfully demonstrated in two-wheelers. Can run up to 98 Kms with only two hour charge at speed of 40-50 Kmph.

The high energy lithium-ion batteries have also been tested by placing them on the solar panels, which are fitted to the car. Therefore, solar panels via batteries can also ‘power’ the electronics of the vehicles by providing a steady power supply.

The lithium-ion batteries are also part of the GSAT-19 satellite, which has been launched by GSLV MKIII on June 6.

Indian government move

The government has asked Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to allow manufacturers interested in producing indigenous lithium-ion batteries, including those from private sector, to obtain the technology for its mass production. Therefore, ISRO will now come up with a framework to make this process smooth.

With the help of this move company like BHEL has shown interest in mass production of lithium-ion batteries developed by ISRO and signed an MoU with ISRO.

Major automobile companies under private sector, battery manufacturers and public sector undertakings have already approached ISRO. Mahindra Renault, Hyundai, Nissan, Tata Motors, and Indian Oil have shown interest in producing the indigenous lithium-ion batteries.

Technology Advantage

Such batteries have high power with less weight and volume as compared to conventional batteries. Hence, they are more suitable to use in electrical vehicle.