Types of Batteries Used in Electric Vehicles

With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, many drivers are interested in learning more about the benefits, incentives features, and EV battery technology. Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Norfolk has your guide to the electric vehicle battery details and how it can enhance your overall driving experience. Learn more, then explore our inventory to find the new or pre-owned EV that’s best suited for your Virginia Beach commute. 

Facts About the Electric Vehicle’s Battery

The type of electric vehicle batteries varies based on whether your chosen vehicle is all-electric or plug-in hybrid electric. The EV battery technology was designed for an extended life that’s about eight years or 100,000 miles. However, some batteries can even last for 12 to 15 years in moderate climates.

With that said, there are four types of batteries used in electric cars: nickel-metal hydride, ultracapacitors, lead-acid, and lithium-ion. Let’s further explore these batteries below!

Nickel-metal hydride batteries — These types of batteries are commonly found in hybrid-electric vehicles, but they can be used in some all-electric vehicles. These types of vehicles don’t get power from the external plug-in since they use fuel to recharge the battery. Facts about nick-metal hydride batteries include:

• Have a longer life cycle than lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries
• High-cost
• High self-discharge rate
• Generates significant hear

Because they’re less effective for rechargeable vehicles, they are mainly used in hybrid electric vehicles.

Ultracapacitor batteries — These are not your traditional batteries, they’re mainly used as a secondary storage device in electric vehicles since they help electrochemical batteries level their load. They also offer extra power when accelerating and regenerating braking. 

Lead-acid batteries — These types of batteries are only used in electric vehicles to supplement other battery loads. They’re inexpensive, safe, reliable, and high-powered. However, their shorter life and poor cold-temperature performance make them harder to use in other electric vehicles. High-powered batteries are currently in development, but they’re not only used as secondary storage in commercial vehicles.

Lithium-ion batteries —This is the most common type of battery used in electric cars, and they’re known for having a high power-to-weight ratio, excellent temperature performance, and high energy efficiency. They can store a lot of energy for their weight, which is vital because it allows electric cars to drive further around Suffolk on a single charge. Due to having a low “self-discharge” rate, they can hold a full charger longer than other batteries over time.

Explore Our Hybrid Inventory in Norfolk!

Are you ready to enhance your Chesapeake commute and overall driving experience with a premium vehicle that’s also excellent for the environment? Stop by our dealership, and we’ll get you behind the driver’s seat for a test drive in Norfolk! Between our competitive prices and vehicle specials, you’re in excellent hands with our team. It’s time that you find your dream vehicle without breaking the bank. Give us a call to get things started!