Reliance Industries Trials Swappable EV Batteries
Reliance Industries Trials Swappable EV Batteries - Motor Mouth Reliance Industries, an Indian conglomerate, has begun trial runs of its swappable lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries for electric two-wheelers. The batteries are currently being made in-house with imported LFP cells and are compatible with inverters to power home appliances. Users can use a mobile app to reserve their battery at a charging station, which removes the need for lengthy charging times. Reliance has also developed an advanced energy management system that can monitor and manage electricity consumption through an app. The company's focus aligns with the global trend towards cobalt-free cathode chemistries, as 60% of global cobalt supply originates from regions associated with human rights violations and environmental harm. The adoption of LFP batteries is in line with efforts to reduce reliance on cobalt.
Published : 2 years ago by Olly Robinson in Auto
Reliance Industries, the Indian conglomerate, has begun trial runs of its swappable lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries for electric two-wheelers. The batteries are currently being made in-house with imported LFP cells. The company has established swappable battery charging stations in Bangalore and collaborated with online grocer BigBasket for the trial.
EV users can use a mobile app to locate and reserve the nearest charging station, operated by Reliance. At the station, they can exchange their depleted battery for a fully charged one, eliminating the need for lengthy charging times. The batteries can be charged using grid power or solar energy and are compatible with inverters, allowing them to power home appliances.
Reliance has also developed an advanced energy management system that enables consumers to monitor, manage, and measure their electricity consumption through a mobile app. The system can integrate power from various sources, including the grid, batteries, solar power generation, and home loads, optimizing the allocation of power and charging needs.
Reliance’s focus on LFP battery technology aligns with the global trend towards cobalt-free cathode chemistries. Cobalt, a key component in many lithium-ion batteries, faces availability and ethical concerns, as approximately 60% of global cobalt supply originates from regions associated with human rights violations and environmental harm. Reliance’s adoption of LFP batteries is in line with efforts to reduce reliance on cobalt.
The company is currently setting up a fully integrated battery gigafactory in the state of Gujarat, India. Reliance’s acquisition of LFP battery specialist Lithium Werks, along with its patent portfolio and manufacturing facility, demonstrates its commitment to advancing battery technology and energy storage solutions.
Sources:
– Uma Gupta, “Reliance begins trials of swappable EV batteries,” pv magazine, October 23, 2023.
– Editors, pv magazine, “Reliance doubles down on cobalt-free cathodes,” pv magazine, October 23, 2023.