Transport Energy – Lithium Ion Batteries

International audienceThis chapter focuses on the technological status and most common chemistries of lithium ion batteries. According to IEA, in the year 2012, the global stock of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PEHVs) and electric vehicles (EVs) amounted to more than 18 0000, representing only 0.02 % of all vehicles. Even though the sales of battery-powered vehicles have more than doubled between 2011 and 2012 from 45 000 to 113 000, the global breakthrough has not taken place and battery companies are having difficult times. In the long term, due to legislation which will in effect reduce vehicle emissions, especially in big cities, clean technologies are expected to prosper. Furthermore, increasing the number of charging stations will convince consumers and officials to choose the electrical alternative. The IEA target for the year 2020 is to increase the number of HEVs and EVs to 20 million which represents 2 % of total vehicle stock. In addition to consumer applications there are markets for lithium ion batteries in industries involved with automated forklifts, boats, harbour vehicles, lifts, backup power and larger energy storages