Will lithium-ion batteries power cars? A progression toward hybrid and electric
cars seems like a natural step in the evolution of automobile technology.
Analysts aren't predicting a drop in oil and gasoline prices anytime soon,
effectively shifting car manufacturers into high gear to find the next best way
to power vehicles. If the recent concept cars revealed by major automakers are
accurate predictors, Lithium-ion batteries (Li-ion) may be that magic bullet.
Take, for instance, the Chevrolet Volt. This is General Motors' plug-in hybrid
concept car designed to run for 40-mile (64.3-kilometer) stretches entirely off
of Li-ion batteries. After that, a small gas engine will take over for another
600 miles (965 kilometers). That means many people could complete their daily
commute without burning a drop of gas launch
x431 pro. In addition, the company plans to start cranking them out en masse
by 2010. And Chevrolet isn't alone in the Li-ion trend. Jeep, Cadillac, Dodge,
Land Rover, Chrysler and Saturn all previewed 2008 concept cars that feature
Li-ion battery packs for greener driving [source: Mahoney]. Why this fawning
over Li-ion batteries in the first place? The Toyota Prius and two new hybrids
the company unveiled in June 2008 use a nickel-metal-hydride battery crp129.
According to the most recent EPA standards, the Prius gets a combined 46 miles
per gallon -- not to mention that it has sold like hotcakes. [source:
fueleconomy.gov]. But in energy terms, Li-ion batteries simply pack a more
powerful punch. Li-ion batteries store more energy in smaller spaces than the
more traditional lead-acid and nickel-metal-hydride ones. Lithium has the most
energy density and electrochemical potential of all metals, which is what gives
it that stamina [source: Buchmann]. The nickel-metal-hydride batteries in
hybrids on the road are also heavy, limiting their potential, whereas Li-ion
batteries can amp the speed without weighing the car down. Because of this
property, you can find smaller versions of them in many consumer electronics
products, such as laptops, cell phones and iPods.
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