We’ve long expected EV range anxiety to become “a thing of the past” as battery and charging technology advances. Now, we’re seeing that tech peeking through to fruition. Researchers, in collaboration with Toyota Motor Corporation, announced a breakthrough. They’ve developed a new type of cathode material for all-solid-state fluoride-ion batteries (FIBs) that could double the energy density of today’s lithium-ion batteries.

A game-Changer for EVs

Currently, most EVs rely on lithium-ion batteries, which typically offer a capacity between 120 and 250 mAh/g. This new fluoride-ion battery cathode, based on copper nitride, delivers a whopping 550 mAh/g. That’s more than twice the energy storage per unit of weight. That translates to an estimated driving range increase from 372 miles to 745 miles on a single charge.

Allow us to get a bit sciency, here: The key innovation lies in how fluoride ions move through the battery. Researchers at Kyoto University discovered that the copper nitride reacts with nitrogen and fluoride ions to extract three electrons per nitrogen atom. This process gives the battery much higher energy density and a potentially longer lifespan compared to traditional lithium-ion technology, Interesting Engineering shared.

Most EVs today offer somewhere between 250 to 400 miles per charge, requiring frequent recharging, especially on long trips. 

If fluoride-ion batteries become widely adopted, future EVs might only need charging once every few days or even once a week, depending on driving habits.

Additionally, solid-state fluoride-ion batteries promise improved safety. Unlike lithium-ion batteries, which use liquid electrolytes that can overheat and catch fire, fluoride-ion batteries use a solid electrolyte, reducing the risk of thermal runaway.

While fluoride-ion batteries show great promise, barriers to EV adoption in the U.S. still exist

Charging infrastructure remains a major hurdle. Many areas lack fast-charging stations, making road trips difficult. The higher upfront cost of EVs compared to gas-powered cars also slows adoption. Additionally, some consumers worry about battery longevity and replacement costs.

Advances like fluoride-ion batteries could help solve multiple issues at once. 

Longer range means fewer charging stops, potentially reducing the need for an extensive charging network. Plus, higher energy density could lead to smaller, lighter batteries, bringing down EV costs.

Researchers are continuing to develop the other components needed for a fully functional all-solid-state fluoride-ion battery, including an anode and a solid electrolyte. While commercial adoption may still be a wait, this breakthrough marks a significant step forward in EV battery tech.

The Kyoto-based researchers work in collaboration with Toyota Motor Corporation. Its European newsroom just released a teaser for an all-new, all-electric, coupe-style car. The full reveal is slated for March 12.

While its incoming fully electric vehicle might not have a 745-mile range, if this battery research is successful, future EVs could outperform gasoline cars in range, safety, and convenience. Of course, U.S. drivers will need a more aligned combo of affordability, supportive infrastructure, and overall positive consumer sentiment.