When it comes to reducing emissions in Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), the choice of battery chemistry can play a significant role. Here are some insights into which battery chemistries are more effective at reducing emissions:
Key Battery Chemistries for Reduced Emissions
- Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP): LFP batteries are noted for having lower lifecycle emissions compared to other chemistries. They have about one-third lower emissions per kWh than Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (NMC) batteries at the pack level. This makes LFP an attractive option for reducing overall emissions in PHEVs.
- Nickel-Based Batteries (NMC, NCA): While NMC and NCA batteries are common due to their high energy density, they generally have higher lifecycle emissions compared to LFP. High-nickel content reduces the material and energy input needed for battery production, which slightly reduces their carbon footprint compared to lower nickel variants. However, their overall emissions remain higher than those of LFP batteries.
Impact on Emissions
- Critical Minerals Processing: For NMC batteries, critical minerals processing accounts for 55% of total emissions, compared to 35% for LFP. This highlights the potential environmental benefits of shifting towards LFP.
- Manufacturing: LFP batteries have higher emissions from manufacturing itself (50% of total), but this is offset by lower emissions from other lifecycle stages.
Recommendations
To effectively reduce emissions in PHEVs, shifting towards battery chemistries like LFP can be beneficial due to their lower lifecycle emissions. Moreover, measures like reshoring or ally-shoring manufacturing processes can further reduce the carbon footprint of battery production. Additionally, policies promoting the use of cleaner energy sources for charging can enhance the environmental benefits of PHEVs.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-specific-battery-chemistries-that-reduce-emissions-more-effectively-in-phevs/
