Thermal Management System for Batteries in Electric Vehicles

Abstract

The rapid advances in battery packs and improved charging infrastructure have attracted customers to electric vehicles (EVs). Reduced energy dependence on other nations and eco-friendliness are the two major advantages of adopting EVs. Electric vehicles require batteries with a high energy density to provide a large driving range. In addition, long cycle life is important to guarantee a large total driving distance. Currently, lithium-ion batteries are widely used in EVs due to their safety concerns, high stability, and energy density properties. The performance of the batteries depends on their thermal characteristics and thermal management systems. Hence, a thermal management system is necessary to sustain the performance of electric vehicles. In this chapter, the effect of temperature rise and self-discharge of the battery packs are discussed. The techniques followed to manage the thermal characteristics of batteries are described with advantages and disadvantages. The chapter is concluded by a future outlook.