Leclanché develops Li-ion EV batteries with fewer rare earths

Leclanché develops Li-ion EV batteries with fewer rare earths

The new battery cells have a 20% higher energy density with the same size, weight and performance level, the company says.

Switzerland-based energy storage provider Leclanché says it was able to reduce the cobalt content in its lithium-ion EV battery cells, bringing the cathode material from 20% to 5%. In addition, the electrodes are manufactured using an “environmentally friendly water-based process,” the company says. In doing so, Leclanché says it completely dispenses with the use of the highly toxic organic solvents (NMP) that are otherwise common in the production process. The new G/NMCA cells from Leclanché have a 20% higher energy density with the same size, weight and performance level, the company says. Water binder-based NMCA (nickel-manganese-cobalt-aluminum oxide) cathodes are easier to dispose of and are also recyclable.

High-capacity NMCA cathodes allow for a 20% increase in the energy density of a Li-ion cell compared to conventional G/NMC cells. However, these cathodes are manufactured by most manufacturers using organic solvents such as NMP (N-methylpyrrolidone). These are highly toxic and harmful to the environment. The use of NMP has therefore been restricted by the European Commission.

Leclanché says the newly developed G/NMCA cell has a nickel content of around 90%, which increases the energy density and enables the significant reduction of the cobalt content by 15%. Thanks to the high-volume energy density and high cycle stability, Leclanché says the new cells are particularly well suited for electric cars and heavy-duty applications such as ships, buses and trucks.

The large-format cells come 100% from German production at the Willstätt site in Baden-Württemberg, while Leclanché’s module production takes place on a state-of-the-art automated assembly line at the company’s headquarters in Yverdon, Switzerland.

Leclanché’s new G/NMCA cells are expected to be available on the market in 2024.

You May Also Like

asTech expands remote OEM solutions to include Tesla

asTech’s diagnostic devices now offer over 99% coverage for authentic remote OEM scans on Tesla vehicles.

Tesla-Model-Y-1400

asTech, a Repairify company involved in remote diagnostics, calibrations, programming and automotive intelligence for the collision and mechanical repair industries, announced an expansion of its remote OEM solutions to now include remote OEM scanning support for Tesla vehicles.

asTech said its diagnostic devices are now able to complete authentic remote OEM scans for virtually every Tesla vehicle (over 99% coverage). The company said this update continues to demonstrate the power and adaptability of asTech’s technology, as well as its dedication to ensuring customers are ready for the future of collision repair.

Cummins hydrogen-ICE engines to power concrete mixer trucks

The project aims to develop a full hydrogen eco-system together with a hydrogen producer, vehicle manufacturer and end user.

Cummins-Terex-Advance-Commander-FD5000-front-discharge-mixer-truck
Swedish researchers develop efficient metal recycling method

Chalmers University researchers used oxalic acid to recover 100% aluminum and 98% lithium from electric car batteries.

Chalmers Tech research
Ascend Elements, Koura partner on Li-Ion recycling project

The companies will collaborate on commercializing Hydro-to-Anode technology, providing a sustainable source of graphite.

Ascend_Elements_team_member-1400
CharIN, ACM collaborate on electric vehicle charging standards

The companies aim to tackle interoperability challenges and improve consumer charging experiences.

BorgWarner-Santroll-eMotor-Handshake

Other Posts

Toyota invests $8 billion to expand battery manufacturing

With this new investment, Toyota plans for 10 new BEV/PHEV battery lines by 2030.

Empact-EV-Charging-Toyota-Prius-Prime-PHEV-1400
Gogoro launches CrossOver smart-scooter ‘SUV’

Gogoro’s CrossOver and CrossOver S feature an all-terrain frame, water-cooled motor and Synchronized Braking System.

Exyte chosen for Volkswagen dry room construction

Exyte said dry room construction is crucial for precise battery cell production.

Exyte_Battery_Factory
Hyzon Motors appoints new chief financial officer

Stephen Weiland will be responsible for overseeing accounting, treasury, investor relations and IT.

Hyzon-Steve_Weiland