ABSTRACT
This chapter delves into the design specifications and operational requirements of battery electric vehicles (BEVs), with a focus on battery technologies, energy storage systems (ESSs), and the challenges of scaling production and infrastructure. It begins by analysing the energy and power demands of BEVs, emphasizing the crucial role of electrochemical batteries in meeting these requirements. The chapter highlights lithium-ion batteries as the dominant ESS technology, detailing their chemistries, performance characteristics, and lifecycle considerations.
Battery management systems (BMSs) are discussed as critical components for ensuring safety, efficiency, and longevity in BEV applications. Topics include voltage and temperature monitoring, state-of-charge (SOC) and state-of-health (SOH) estimation, and advanced cell-balancing techniques. The chapter also introduces the Ragone Plot as a tool for comparing energy and power densities across battery technologies, providing insights into their suitability for various BEV applications.
Charging infrastructure and Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technologies are explored as enablers of widespread BEV adoption. The discussion spans charging levels, connector types, and the integration of bidirectional systems for Vehicle-to-Home (V2H), Vehicle-to-Building (V2B), and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) applications. Challenges such as grid upgrades, standardization, and user acceptance are addressed.
Through a comprehensive evaluation of design and infrastructure considerations, this chapter underscores the potential of BEVs to transform transportation while contributing to sustainable energy systems.
