Bengaluru-based startup Log9 Materials has showcased the first Indian-made batteries for electric vehicles. The self-developed batteries, which are manufactured locally by the company, will be used to make the locally manufactured battery packs that power the electric two- and three-wheelers. Considering that the battery pack accounts for 40-50% of the total cost of an EV, EV prices should bring the cost down considerably.
Log9 Materials was the first component supplier in the country to locally produce lithium-ion batteries, which are now being imported into the country. The company will conduct a pilot production program in the first year to test and improve the battery cells, while also providing real applications to its OEM partners. With a production capacity of 50 megawatt-hours (MWh) per year, the company is able to produce cells in different sizes, including 60200 (pictured below), 18650, 21700, and others.
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Log9 is capable of producing batteries of different sizes, with an initial capacity of 50 megawatt-hours (MWh)
Log9 said the locally developed cells would help reduce overall costs by around 40% and reduce efficiency losses by 50%. However, the automaker is still far from achieving the desired economies of scale to pass on cost benefits to customers. Log9’s initial aim is to build vehicles for its battery packs and R&D, while it also plans to expand production in the future with a new, larger 1 GWh facility.
The company has also developed its own battery management system (BMS) to maximize “Charvik” performance, thereby maximizing the efficiency and life of the battery. Log9 announced the LTO (lithium titanate) and LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries that the company plans to produce.
The former promises greater stability and up to 40,000 charge cycles for a lifespan of up to 40 years, while also being able to support fast charging. Meanwhile, the LFP battery will be able to charge quickly and remain stable in a wide temperature range from -30 degrees Celsius to 60 degrees Celsius.
India’s first self-developed lithium-ion battery pack
The arrival of locally manufactured batteries is a big boost for the electric vehicle industry. Since battery costs account for a significant portion of the asking price of an EV, home-grown batteries should significantly reduce cost levels. The battery cell developed by Log9 is still some time away from commercial production, and it will take several months to complete the test before it can be launched for use. The company is working with electric vehicle manufacturers as well as motor and controller manufacturers to build its own ecosystem.
First published date: April 21, 2023 at 15:07 PM CST
https://auto.hindustantimes.com/auto/electric-vehicles/log9-materials-reveals-first-made-in-india-battery-cell-for-electric-vehicles-41682068051681.html