The Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT) has recently announced plans to enhance the efficiency and longevity of electric vehicles (EVs) through the development of an advanced battery management system. This new system is specifically focused on lithium-ion batteries and aims to revolutionize the EV industry by delivering higher performance, improved safety, and longer battery cell life.
According to the institute, the innovative measures being undertaken will create a framework that enables more accurate prediction and control of battery health. This, in turn, will result in overall optimal utilization of the battery system for EVs, ultimately contributing to the widespread adoption of environmentally friendly mobility solutions.
Under the current project design, AIT will utilize their expertise in the physico-chemical processes of lithium-ion batteries to develop the battery management system. This will involve integrating fundamental knowledge and experience to assemble complete battery module prototypes, including battery cells and sensors. These prototypes will then undergo rigorous testing under various operating conditions to ensure the effectiveness of implemented safety functions and the detection of faulty cells within the module.
Hansjörg Kapeller, the project manager, expressed the significance of the initiative by stating, “NEXTBMS aims to develop solutions for the next generation of battery management systems. The project contributes to achieving the optimal use of battery systems, extending their service life and reducing costs through more efficient use of materials. It supports systemic changes towards environmentally friendly mobility solutions. This benefits both the environment and end users.” The commitment to building a sustainable and cost-effective electric mobility infrastructure is evident in AIT’s unwavering dedication to this transformative project.
Notably, the institute had previously announced plans to further revolutionize the battery ecosystem by focusing on the development of cobalt-free batteries. Keeping in line with this commitment, AIT aimed to analyze the creation of high power density batteries for both road and air transport, with the goal of achieving a cell with an energy density of 390 Wh/kg and a service life of at least 2,000 charging cycles. This move underscores AIT’s dedication to sustainability and technological advancement in the realm of electric mobility.
The efforts of the Austrian Institute of Technology to develop an improved battery management system and to advance the EV industry with cobalt-free batteries are evidence of their commitment to sustainable and innovative solutions. As the global push for electric mobility gains momentum, initiatives such as these play a pivotal role in shaping a greener, more sustainable future for transportation. With AIT at the forefront of these pioneering developments, the prospect of a world powered by efficient and eco-friendly electric vehicles is closer than ever.