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Imagine driving your electric car on a long highway in Europe.
You’re going fast, and charging stations are far apart.
Normally, you’d feel anxious about running out of power. But with your new battery, you relax. This battery lasts longer, charges faster, and is better for the environment.
**Smarter, more powerful batteries**
The European Union (EU) is investing in new electric vehicle (EV) batteries that are cheaper, more efficient, and eco-friendly.
Scientists at SINTEF, led by researcher Nils Peter Wagner, are working on the _IntelLiGent_ project to make these batteries a reality.
Wagner and his team have developed a new battery “recipe” using advanced materials that are affordable and less harmful to the planet. These batteries can store more energy, last longer, and charge quickly.
**The secret ingredients**
Think of the battery like a sandwich. The top layer, called the _cathode_, is made of lithium-nickel-manganese oxide (LNMO).
Unlike current battery materials, LNMO doesn’t use cobalt and contains less lithium and nickel, making it more sustainable. This material also produces high energy, helping the car go farther without charging.
The bottom layer, the _anode_, is a mix of silicon and graphite. Silicon can hold a lot of energy, while graphite keeps the battery stable and long-lasting. However, silicon tends to expand and crack, so the researchers found a way to balance it with graphite. The result? A high-capacity battery that doesn’t break down easily.
The IntelLiGent team also created a special _electrolyte_, a liquid inside the battery that protects both the cathode and anode. This makes the battery more stable and improves its lifespan.
**Self-repairing technology**
One of the biggest challenges of high-energy batteries is overheating. To solve this, the researchers redesigned the battery’s structure to prevent heat buildup.
They also added special _binders_ and _separators_ that hold everything together and prevent short circuits. Even better, these components can repair minor damage on their own, making the battery last even longer.
Before producing the batteries on a large scale, the researchers are testing them using advanced computer models. This allows them to see how the batteries perform under different conditions without wasting materials.
The IntelLiGent team is now preparing to mass-produce these new batteries. They are working with manufacturers and suppliers to ensure the technology is safe, durable, and ready for the market.
These new EV batteries will allow drivers to go farther without charging and spend less time at charging stations. At the same time, they reduce environmental impact by using sustainable materials and lasting longer.
With smarter, stronger, and greener batteries, the future of electric cars looks brighter than ever.