It is true for vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE) and even far more so for new-energy vehicles, consisting of pure battery-powered electric vehicles (EVs) or a combination of the two better known as hybrids – normal or plug in.

As South Africa’s EV and hybrid market slowly expands, battery technology plays a central role in determining vehicle performance, cost and reliability. Different types of batteries are used across EVs and hybrids, each with distinct materials and characteristics.

Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) batteries:

Li-ion batteries are currently the dominant battery type used in EVs and hybrids. They offer a strong balance between energy density (how much power they store), size and lifespan. Inside, the key ingredients are a lithium-based cathode, a graphite or silicon anode and a liquid electrolyte.

Some of better known and talked about chemicals used, include:

• NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt): Offers a good mix of power and safety. Examples in South Africa: BMW iX3 and Volvo XC40 Recharge.
• NCA (Nickel Cobalt Aluminium): Known for high-energy density, especially in performance EVs. Examples, although not available locally, would be the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y.
• LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate): Safer and more durable, but with a slightly lower range. Examples in South Africa: BYD Dolphin and the MG4 EV. The Blade battery, developed by BYD, is a form of a lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) battery. Its flat, elongated cell design resembles a blade for better structural integrity and it has very good thermal management.

In general, the Li-ion batteries, notwithstanding the type, are known for higher energy and power density, it is relatively lightweight, boasts good energy efficiency and a good life cycle.

The life cycle is the number of times it can be charged from 0% to 100% and back down before dropping below around 80% of its original capacity. A higher life cycle means a longer battery lifespan.

Nickel-Metal hydride (NiMH) batteries:

NiMH batteries were once the go-to for hybrids before lithium-ion became more mainstream. They are still used in many self-charging hybrids because of their proven reliability, safety and robustness.

Vehicles in South Africa using NiMH batteries include, among others, the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid and the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

It is durable with an excellent safety record and tolerates frequent partial charging and discharging. It is, however, heavier and less energy-dense than lithium-ion batteries.

Solid-state batteries (SSBs):

Solid-state batteries use next-generation technology. It replaces the flammable liquid electrolyte in Li-ion batteries with solid material.

This allows for higher energy storage, better safety, faster charging and longer-range ability. While not yet available in production vehicles, global carmakers are investing heavily in developing them.

Toyota plans to introduce solid-state batteries in production EVs from around 2027, while BMW and Volkswagen are also testing solid-state prototypes.

This type of battery could be a game changer for EVs. It is not yet commercially available in South Africa or elsewhere, but likely to appear in premium EVs in future. The complexity of the manufacturing process and high cost of materials, make it expensive.

Lithium-titanate (LTO) batteries:

These batteries charge extremely quickly and are very long-lasting but sacrifice range owing to lower energy density. They are not commonly used in passenger vehicles but are suitable for fleet and commercial vehicles.

Electric buses and mining equipment in South Africa have trialled LTO batteries owing to fast charge capability.

It can charge in as little as 10 minutes. It is good for high-frequency urban use owing to its extremely long life cycles (up to 10 000+ cycles compared to the other type of batteries 2 000+ cycles). On the negative side is its limited range.

Lead-acid batteries:

Although unsuitable for driving propulsion in modern EVs, lead-acid batteries are still widely used as auxiliary 12V batteries for powering lights, infotainment and accessories on vehicles.

Almost all EVs and hybrids on South African roads, including the BMW i3, Jaguar I-PACE and the GWM Ora 03, use 12V lead-acid batteries alongside the main lithium-ion pack.

It is cheap to replace, have a low energy density and a poor cycle life (they wear out quickly if discharged too much). It is mostly for support functions, not propulsion.

To conclude…

Battery technology is at the core of South Africa’s EV and hybrid market. From dependable nickel-metal hydride cells in Toyota’s hybrids to advanced lithium-ion and LFP systems in new models like the MG4 and BYD Atto 3, each battery type serves a purpose.

As technology matures and global investment continues, South African consumers can expect more efficient, longer-lasting and more affordable electric vehicles in the near future.