Title: Cranking Up Electric Car Distance with BMW iX and Our Next Energy's Gemini Battery
Passion for electric vehicles (EVs) is on the rise, buoyed by advancements in charging technology and infrastructure. But, the specter of running out of juice still lurks over long trips, especially during frigid weather. Enter BMW and Our Next Energy, pushing the EV distance envelope with their game-changing Gemini battery.
Recent tests on a Gemini-equipped BMW iX gave us 978.6 kilometers in WLTP conditions, although real-world figures might dip around a third due to weather variations. That leaves us with an impressive 600+ kilometers – way ahead of most EVs.
The magic sauce? The Gemini battery, Our Next Energy's two-pronged secret weapon. It features a LFP (lithium iron phosphate) side, responsible for supplying the motor's needs and offering up 240 kilometers of range tailored to our daily drive needs. But it's the anode-free side, brimming with energy density, that acts as a range-extender beyond the LFP, tacking on an additional 724 kilometers! All this happens in a 300-400 liter space – not bad for an enlarged EV battery.
Our Next Energy's commitment to sustainability and resource optimization is reflected in the Gemini battery. The cells require 20% less lithium, 60% less graphite, and less nickel and cobalt compared to standard batteries. The result? Lower costs and fewer pollutants. The implementation of anode-free technology, while offering reduced lifespan and motor power, is strategically balanced by the LFP side, focusing on energy provision and letting anode-free cells serve as range-extenders.
In 2020, Our Next Energy demonstrated its might when it powered a Tesla Model S over 1200 kilometers in chilly weather without a recharge. However, the battery's potential under controlled conditions couldn't reach further past this threshold at the time.
Our Next Energy is shooting for the stars for a 2024 market entry, honing in on manganese-based cathodes to do without cobalt. The anode-free tech gamble promises to unlock the full potential of long-distance EV travel, vanquishing range anxiety and opening up new adventure possibilities.
Sources: [ONE], [Autoline Network]
Battery evangelism goes beyond sustainability and safety. It's about recycling materials and reducing waste as the industry grapples with the e-waste challenge. With innovative LFP cells, the odds are in favor of boosting ranges while keeping the planet healthy.
