In order to be able to sell the production version of the all-electric Renault 5 Prototype planned for 2023 at a profit, Renault is analyzing the LFP batteries. The price range of the Renault 5 should be between 20,000 and 30,000 euros.
The LFP batteries (lithium iron phosphate batteries) have a more reasonable price and together with the new CMF-B EV platform for compact electric vehicles, could ensure that this goal is easily achieved.
LFP batteries are more stable and more resistant to damages in the event of an accident. LFP batteries don't contain cobalt, which is still one of the most expensive metals in battery manufacturing. This is one of the reasons why they are cheaper than lithium-ion batteries with NMC (nickel, manganese and cobalt) cathodes. But, the energy density of LFP batteries is lower than that of NMC batteries. Also, LFP batteries can only offer reduced performance in cold weather.
However, it is unclear whether the electric Renault 5 will be offered exclusively with LFP batteries.
LFP batteries are not new technology. They are currently mainly used in China. For example, Tesla is now delivering its Model 3 SR + with LFP battery cells from CATL.
Electric and hybrid cars are destined to undermine petrol cars within a few years. This is stated by the Cambridge Econometrics, whose study "Fuelling Europe's Future" was commissioned by the European Climate Foundation. According to British… Continue reading
Marketed since March 2013, the Renault Zoe can boast of being number one electric model sales in France and number two in Europe right behind the Nissan Leaf. Continue reading
Until a few months ago, Rivian was unknown to the general public. Headquartered in Michigan, the Michigan-based company was first established in 2009 but was not acknowledged until last November's Los Angeles Motor Show, when it introduced the… Continue reading
Xiaomi has formalized a revised and corrected version of its Mi Electric Scooter: the Pro version, officially presented today. Aesthetically, it has no significant differences compared to the non-Pro model: the design is minimalist,… Continue reading
