Nanotechnology in the Field of Electric Vehicles

Abstract

In this era of advocating environmental protection and low-carbon economy, electric vehicles (EVs) are now being promoted all over the world, and the world's leading traditional car brands are focusing their strategic approach on developing EVs. However, EVs do have many drawbacks such as paradox of battery performance and range. Batteries equipped in EVs nowadays usually have a low capacity, and heavy and large battery pack is not only expensive to manufacture but also reduces the range. Enhancing the performance of the battery pack and reducing the weight of the EVs has become a crucial problem. This article reveals that the application of nanotechnology has accelerated the development of EVs by improving the battery performance, enhancing the mechanical strength and reducing the weight of the car bodies. Specifically, nanomaterials such as nano LiFePO4, nano Li2MnSiO4 and carbon nanotubes can be applied to the electrodes to have a larger capacity, higher specific power, and longer cycle life, thus increasing performance and driving range. Besides, to achieve further reduction in body weight and increase body strength, lightweight nanocomposites such as carbon fibre reinforced composite can also be applied to structural application of an EV. The use of this nanocomposite significantly reduces the overall weight of the vehicle, increases the rigidity of the bodywork and improves the performance and safety of the vehicle. In the future, seeking for electric vehicles with longer driving ranges, more efficient batteries with better performance and higher long-term safety will be of academic and commercial significance.