New Nikola batteries claim to offer record energy density
By Jim Gibbins - 1st December 2019
USA - Nikola Corporation of Phoenix, Arizona has released details of its new battery technology, which is claimed to have a record energy density of 1,100 watt-hours per kg on the material level and 500 watt-hours per kg on the production cell level. Nikola said the prototype cell is the first battery that removes binder material and current collectors, enabling more energy storage within the cell. It is also expected to pass nail penetration standards, thus reducing potential vehicle fires.
The company calculates this battery technology could increase the range of current EV passenger cars from 300 miles up to 600 miles with little or no increase to battery size and weight. The technology is also designed to operate in existing vehicle conditions. Moreover, cycling the cells over 2,000 times has shown acceptable end-of-life performance.
