The role of battery energy storage in the transition from fossil fuels to electrification in transport is critical, with lithium-ion technologies seen as key in achieving the Road to Zero Strategy.
A step-change in the integration of battery technologies into automotive is underway, but challenges still remain around range anxiety, re-fuel (charging) times, and cost, hindering the adoption of electric vehicles by the wider public. There have been significant efforts to improve battery performance through chemistries and materials used but little progress has been made in the engineering design of cells. Building on recent advances in cell design in the 4680 cell announced by Tesla, this project will further develop the concept of the continual tab cell through bringing together unique expertise in battery prototyping (CEMR) and laser welding (CMM), both strengths at Coventry University to achieve and understand further improvements in cell design allowing for higher power and energy through engineering.
The project offers a unique opportunity to gain a deep understanding and experience across all aspects of device development, from electrode development, through mechanical assembly, advanced welding, and joining techniques, and ultimately device performance and electrochemical testing.