The Types of Batteries Used in Electric Vehicles

The electric vehicle market is booming, and the new wave of electric innovation is convincing many drivers to switch to a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or all-electric vehicle for their Goochland drives. With enhanced performance, fuel efficiency, and technology both under the hood and inside the cabin, electrified vehicles promise to bring the automotive industry into the future. But, with technology advancing every day, many drivers wonder: how does EV battery technology work? And what kind of electric vehicle batteries power your drives in the latest Chevy Bolt or Hummer EV? Find out in this guide to the different electric vehicle battery types and their primary uses from Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Buick GMC Richmond!

Electric Vehicle Battery Types

The most important part of your hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric vehicle is the electric battery that powers the motors. What kind of EV battery technology is used in your vehicle will depend on its usage, vehicle type, and expected load. See the different types of batteries used in electrified vehicles below for more details:

Nickel-Metal Hydride Batteries

Nickel-metal hydride batteries, also known as NiMH batteries, are found primarily in hybrid vehicles. Known for their high self-discharge rate and long lifespan, NiMH batteries do well in hybrid models, thanks to the constant recharging they receive from the combustion engine as you drive around Glen Allen. That said, NiMH batteries tend to come at a higher cost than other battery types and generate significant heat the longer they’re in use. 

Ultracapacitor Batteries 

Ultracapacitor batteries are rarely used as a primary power source. Instead, these types of batteries are installed in EVs as secondary power sources to help level the electric load of the model’s main battery by providing additional power in the regenerative braking system or during acceleration. 

Lead-Acid Batteries 

Lead-acid batteries are another type of electric vehicle battery used as secondary storage due to their short life cycle and poor performance in cold temperatures. However, lead-acid batteries are perfect as supplementary power sources thanks to their relatively low cost, general safety, and reliability. Some high-powered lead-acid batteries are in their research stage, but until there’s a breakthrough, don’t expect this EV battery technology to power EVs any time soon. 

Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are the most common type of EV batteries thanks to their high power-to-weight ratio, exceptional energy efficiency, low self-discharge rate, and capable performance regardless of weather conditions. With all the perks that come with using lithium-ion batteries, it’s no surprise that they’re the primary power sources for most electric vehicles on the Henrico streets today.

Prepare for Your Next Hybrid or EV Vehicle at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Buick GMC Richmond!

Continue your EV learning journey with Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Buick GMC Richmond! Read up on everything from the different types of electric vehicle chargers to how to prepare your home for an EV so you can feel confident when you switch to an electrified model. Any questions? Feel free to contact us! Our team is ready to assist you in driving into the electric future in Richmond.