Stellantis unveils revolutionary battery tech promising enhanced efficiency

In a significant development in electric vehicle technology, Stellantis has introduced an innovative battery configuration aimed at addressing the high costs associated with electric vehicle batteries. This new design merges the functionality of the power electronics module and the on-board charger into the battery pack itself, effectively transforming the traditional energy flow from DC to AC without the need for multiple components. This configuration has been implemented in prototype testing using the Peugeot e-3008 in France. The research team at Stellantis has reported that the new battery design leads to an estimated 10% increase in energy efficiency during operations, with an additional 15% boost in power output. To elaborate on the unique features of this new system, the individual battery modules are equipped with their own inverter and control circuits. This individualized design allows for precise regulation of energy output, enabling better optimization of the overall performance of the electric vehicle. Unlike conventional systems where high voltage DC flows necessitate a complex power electronics module, the integration of inverters within each module streamlines the architecture, allowing for various battery chemistries to coexist in the same pack. This level of modularity can potentially enhance the flexibility and adaptability of electric vehicle designs. Furthermore, Stellantis emphasizes notable improvements not only in propulsion efficiency but also in charging efficiency. The new architecture is projected to reduce losses during charging by 10%, while simultaneously decreasing charging times by 15%. The application of a cell-to-pack structure could further eliminate excess modules, maximizing cell capacity and overall energy storage. These developments, while still under intensive research and testing, suggest a promising future for modern electric vehicles, particularly with a rollout anticipated by the end of the decade. This innovation was first utilized in a stationary energy storage context before being adapted to electric vehicles. The Peugeot e-3008 is currently undergoing evaluations to determine the real-world performance of the new battery configuration. Stellantis’s initiative could potentially reshape the landscape of electric vehicle technologies, significantly impacting manufacturing processes and operational efficiency in the field of sustainable transportation. As battery technology continues to evolve, solutions like this will play a crucial role in enabling widespread and economically viable electric mobility.