Continued from Cover
The Paradox most lithium-ion batteries, some of the ways that lithium is sourced are far from environmentally friendly. An alkali metal, lithium has seen enormous growth in demand over the last few decades. This is partly a result of the growth in demand for EVs, but also the fact that lithium is used in the batteries of many electronic devices, such as smartphones and laptops. Lithium is also an important raw resource for the production of glass and ceramics. And its use has been accelerating over time. According to some sources, between 2008 and 2018, annual production of lithium rose from 25,400 to 85,000 tons. Li-ion battery production aside (we’ll dedicate a section to that later), other environmental impacts include the kinds of motors used in EVs. Depending on the model, these will either be permanent magnets or induction motors. The former tend to be made of rare-earth metals which require energy-intensive extraction and refinement processes. The mining of these materials can also lead to the release of toxic byproducts that, in countries with less than ideal environmental practices, can be devastating for the environment. Another environmental impact of EVs is the method in which the electricity used to power them is sourced. For many countries, this still includes large amounts of fossil fuel power stations. Carbon dioxide emissions aside, the combustion of carbon-based fuels releases other noxious fumes, including sulfur and nitrous oxides, as well as particulate matter. This can lead to secondary environmental impacts like acid rain and can cause respiratory problems if the particulate matter reaches a certain threshold. EV vehicles, like combustion-engined vehicles, also release particulate matter from their braking systems. This so-called “non-exhaust particle emissions (PM)” can also contribute to respiratory diseases in built-up areas like cities. And the effects of this can be significant. According to some sta-
tistics, this form of PM may be responsible for thousands of premature deaths in the UK alone. It is important to note that these kinds of statistics rarely distinguish between the source of the PM, and include various sources including EVs and convention combustion-engined vehicles. Interestingly enough, asbestos used to be used as brake pads in many vehicles, but has since been banned in many countries around the world. But we digress. While generally considered a smaller contributing source than internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEs), EVs still require friction braking systems to operate safely. Regenerative braking systems can be used to alleviate the issue of PM generation when braking, but ultimately to stop any vehicle, some form of friction-based braking will likely be necessary. For this reason, a factor termed the “rebound effect” could come into play. As EVs become more popular over time, they are incentivized by authorities, their costs reduce over time and more people will be encouraged to use them. The result, as the argument goes, is we will see more of them on our roads, although since they release fewer PMs overall, this may be a benefit. The issue with PMs could also be mitigated, for all types of vehicles, with advancements being made in frictionless braking systems (like eddy current brake systems), although these are likely some years away from being commercially viable. What are the benefits of lithium-ion batteries in EVs? Lithium-ion batteries, Li-ion for short, are one of the most ubiquitous sources of portable power in the world today. You can find them in cellphones, laptops, power tools and, of course, electrical vehicles. The reason for this is varied but, in short, the technology is reliable, requires low maintenance, lasts a relatively long time, can be charged quickly and is usually safe and easy to use. All great attributes as a portable source of power. But one of the main standout features of this technology is the ability to recharge the batteries as
needed. In fact, most Li-ion batteries can be charged, discharged and recharged hundreds of times before expiring. Compared to other common types of batteries, Li-ion batteries also tend to have a higher energy density and voltage capacity and lower self-discharge rate. This makes them a great way to store and transport energy efficiently and easily. Let’s expand on some of the technology’s main benefits: Li-ion batteries require less maintenance: With regards to maintenance, Li-ion batteries, unlike lead-acid batteries, do not need to be “watered,” meaning they require less monitoring and skilled operatives to conduct maintenance on them. They last a long time: Li-ion batteries, as previously stated, last a relatively long time. On average, a Li-ion battery can be expected to remain serviceable for eight or more years (depending on use). Li-ion batteries are rechargeable: Whether used for domestic appliances or industrial machines, the ability to recharge them at will is incredibly useful. Charging is also
relatively fast, and getting faster, as we have seen with advances in super-quick charging in EVs. They are generally safe: As Liion batteries do not need the highly toxic chemicals found in more conventional batteries, such as acidic components in lead-acid batteries, they are relatively safer to use and dispose of. Li-ion batteries are relatively environmentally friendly: When compared to lead-acid batteries and to fossil fuel alternatives, Li-ion batteries are much better for the environment. Lithium isn’t a toxic heavy metal like lead, and directly replacing internal combustion-engined vehicles with EVs using li-ion batteries as a power source helps reduce emissions. However, as you are about to find out, the environmental benefits of Li-ion batteries may in some ways be shortsighted. What is the environmental impact of battery production and disposal? Possibly the most important environmental impact of EVs is the way lithium for their batteries are
COLLISION CONOUEST COLLISION PARTS HAVE
MET THEIR
MATCH.
THE MOPAR
®
PRICE MATCH. O.E. QUALITY AT AFTERMARKET PRICES.
Send your electronic insurance estimate to your local FCA US LLC dealer and get the parts that fit true and finish right. We price match* against aftermarket or salvage collision parts. Program includes fascias, headlamps/tail lamps, grilles, bumpers, fenders, hoods, wheels, mirrors, radiators and condensers. *Some exclusions apply. See dealer for details.
EASTCHESTER CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE 4007 Boston Road Bronx, NY 10466
ORDER HOT LINE: (914) 597-7018 Fax: (718) 881-3014 Mon.–Fri. 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Sat. 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
WE COMPETE WITH AFTERMARKET PRICES!
FREE DELIVERY! ©2021 FCA US LLC. All Rights Reserved. Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Mopar and SRT are registered trademarks of FCA US LLC.
24 OCTOBER 2021 AUTOBODY NEWS / autobodynews.com 60453_COL22_Q_AB.indd 1
5/4/21 4:37 P
