Varnika discusses her role and involvement with regards to EV batteries, industry challenges, what she is looking forward to at the event and why it is important for engineers to attend.
Q: Could you briefly explain your role, involvement, and experience with regards to EV batteries?
Varnika Agarwal (VA): As a Research Analyst within Rho Motion, a pioneering research-based consulting house in London, my role revolves around battery technology. My focus spans from BESS, recycling to EV battery technologies, all aligned with the overarching goal of electrification. My PhD in solid-state battery from University of Oxford gives me the confidence to understand the innovations happening in the field.
Q: What are the main challenges facing the industry at present?
VA: The electric vehicle (EV) market, while rapidly growing and transformative, confronts several notable challenges that influence its widespread adoption and success.
Concerns about the limited driving range of EVs compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles can deter potential buyers. Addressing range anxiety by improving battery technology and charging infrastructure is crucial. The other issue is the availability and accessibility of charging stations in remote areas remains a significant hurdle. Expanding charging networks, ensuring compatibility, and reducing charging times are essential to alleviate this challenge.
High initial costs of EVs, largely attributed to expensive battery technology, can dissuade buyers. Additionally, concerns about battery life and replacement costs can impact consumer confidence. Although batteries have improved, further advancements are needed to enhance energy density, charging speed, and lifespan. Research and development are ongoing to create more efficient and cost-effective battery solutions.
Another issue is the sourcing of raw materials for batteries, such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which raises concerns about environmental and ethical implications. Developing sustainable and responsible supply chains is imperative.
Inconsistent or inadequate government policies and incentives can hinder EV adoption. Clear and supportive regulations, subsidies, and incentives can greatly encourage consumers to switch to EVs.
Addressing these challenges requires collaboration among governments, automobile manufacturers, technology companies, and other stakeholders to create a conducive environment for the continued growth and success of the electric vehicle market.
Q: How would you say the industry has evolved over the past five years?
VA: Over the past five years, the electric vehicle (EV) industry has undergone a remarkable and transformative evolution from increased adoption to expanded model range. Increasing battery technology advancements and charging infrastructure have helped to increase the range and overcome some of the range anxiety challenges.
A lot of interest has been gathered in battery recycling, with new incentives, promoting the reuse of the materials. Overall, the past five years have witnessed a dynamic evolution in the electric vehicle industry, marked by technological breakthroughs, increased consumer adoption, supportive policies, and a shift towards sustainable transportation solutions.
Q: What developments are going on that may have an impact on the development of future electric vehicles and battery technologies?
VA: In the electric vehicle and battery technology sectors, we are currently witnessing a host of exciting developments that hold the potential to significantly influence the future landscape. Some key areas of focus include battery chemistry breakthroughs, second-life usage, charging infrastructure expansion, BMS and policy initiatives.
Q: What will you be presenting at the conference and how will this benefit participants?
VA: The session will examine chemistries for fast charging, discussing and comparing different electrode chemistries. We will consider the potential benefits and challenges of fast charging commercialisation and the market impact with a forward-looking forecast. As well as examining the current players and their progress within this developing technology.
Q: Why is it important for engineers to join this year’s International EV Batteries conference?
VA: This talk will provide an insight into chemistries for fast charging with an overview of the current market status and predictions for the development of the technology into commercialisation. The purpose of the presentation is not a sales pitch but to provide the audience with information to promote discussion on an emerging technology that is a hot topic in the industry. We will be generous with data disclosed to create an informative picture of the state of the market and our informed predictions.
This year’s International EV Batteries conference will be taking place on 7-8 November 2023 at Aston Villa Football Club, Birmingham. To book your place, please visit www.imeche.org/evbatteries.