The cost of the minerals used in electric vehicle (EV) batteries is coming down rapidly as automakers pursue global supply chains. A new study suggests that EV prices could match the prices.
Some EV owners are taken by surprise when they discover the cost of replacing their batteries. Depending on the brand and model of the vehicle, the cost of a new lithium-ion battery pack might be as high as $25,000:
How much does a battery cost?
This specific composition is pivotal in establishing the battery's capacity, power, safety, lifespan, cost, and overall performance. Lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA) battery cells have an average price of $120.3 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), while lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide (NCM) has a slightly lower price point at $112.7 per kWh.
Both contain significant nickel proportions, increasing the battery's energy density and allowing for longer range. At a lower cost are lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which are cheaper to make than cobalt and nickel-based variants. LFP battery cells have an average price of $98.5 per kWh.
How much does a 100 kWh battery cost?
The price of these batteries is an entirely different story. A typical 100kWh pack will set the purchaser back somewhere around $25k - 32k. End consumers pay prices, the OEM pays costs, and costs beyond just major raw materials. Should have explained the pros and cons of each battery type.
How much does a lithium nickel cobalt battery cost?
Lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA) battery cells have an average price of $120.3 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), while lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide (NCM) has a slightly lower price point at $112.7 per kWh. Both contain significant nickel proportions, increasing the battery's energy density and allowing for longer range.
How much does an 80 kWh battery cost?
A more popular 80-kWh pack would be $11,120. Considering a $35,000-$40,000 price tag for a car, it's still a substantial part of the price, but let's also recall that over 10 years ago, in a similar bracket, we would get only an EV with a 24-30-kWh battery and a few times shorter driving range.