EV battery types: LFP vs NMC, which is better and why

This article has been authored by Samrath Kochar, Founder & CEO of Trontek.
EV battery types and their chemistry have been a key discussion point among stakeholders in India as they affect the industry. The key features of EVs like performance, safety, and cost depend on their battery and they play a major role in consumers’ decision to buy a particular vehicle. Also, we have witnessed some incidents where EV batteries caught fire. These incidents have raised the concerns of consumers about battery chemistry, affecting the adoption of EVs.

Definitely, a highly advanced battery chemistry is essential to instill confidence among consumers and revolutionize the EV segment. It will help Indian accomplish the goal of electrification of the transportation sector and reduce carbon footprint. It has an ambitious target of achieving 30% EV sales in private automobiles, 70% in the commercial vehicle segment, and 80% in two and three-wheelers by 2030.

This has shifted the focus of auto manufacturers toward a suitable battery chemistry for India. Today, we are seeing a discussion around two important types of EV batteries- LFP and NMC. Stakeholders are searching for answers to some pertinent questions. Which one is better? Which one is suitable for the Indian geographical conditions? So, let’s take a deep dive into the topic to find out the correct answers.

LFP vs NMC: which battery type is relevant
Both Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) and Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) are lithium-ion batteries where lithium ions flow from cathode to anode through the electrolyte in charged conditions. The cathodes are made of lithium iron phosphate and nickel manganese cobalt chemistry in the two batteries respectively. And both types of batteries use graphite as anode material. Despite these similarities, they are very different in features which give LFP batteries an edge over NMC batteries. Here are some major differences-

Lifespan- Whatever battery you use; they lose their ability to hold charge with time. This phenomenon is known as degradation, and it affects their lifespan. Degradation happens slowly in LFP batteries as compared to NMC batteries which increase their lifespan. It simply means that LFPs can store and release more power than NMCs over time.

Safety- Whenever consumers go to purchase an EV, they primarily focus on safety. Recently, we have seen some cases of EVs catching fire. This has increased the significance of safety features. When it comes to safety, LFP batteries beat NMCs due to their stable lithium chemistry. Even at higher temperatures, the Lithium Iron Phosphate chemistry is more stable than Nickel Manganese Cobalt. At the same time, LFP batteries are less likely to go under thermal runaway than NMC batteries due to their ability to handle larger power draws. Hence, LFP batteries are less vulnerable to catching fire.

Temperature tolerance- In terms of temperature resistance, LFP batteries are better than NMC batteries. These batteries have the capabilities to operate in a wide range of temperatures, which varies from -4.4-degree Celsius to 70-degree Celsius. This broad operating range makes them perfect for EVs in Indian climatic conditions.

Cycle life- Usually, the cycle life of NMC batteries remains around 800 times. For LFP batteries, it is more than 3000 times. If used properly, the cycle life of LFP can increase to 6000 times. This indicates their robust durability.

Environment-friendly- Environment safety is the primary motive behind EVs. If any material leaves a harmful impact on the environment, then they are not a viable option to move ahead. Here again, LFP batteries beat NMCs. Cobalt and Nickel are toxic substances and affect the environment. In comparison, materials of LFPs are less toxic and leave minimal impact on the environment.

Availability of material- The major elements of LFP- Iron and Phosphate- are in abundance in the country as compared to Nickel and Cobalt which are used in NMC batteries. It does not require extensive excavations to get iron and phosphate. Also, manufacturers need to import Nickel, the price of which fluctuates due to the demand in the international market. Case in point, Nickel price registered a 107% hike in March this year, increasing the prices of EVs fitted with NMC batteries. It not only affects the sale and revenue of companies but also slows down EV adoption in the country.

Hence, due to their safer lithium chemistry and better thermal and structural stability, LFP batteries, also referred to as LiFePO4, are effective battery solutions than NMCs.

Way forward
The Indian EV industry needs a battery solution, suitable to its topography and climate while having a fancy design. Due to the advantages of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery, it seems quite suitable for India and its consumers as compared to NMC batteries. It is not only safe in terms of the environment but also incidents like fire. Besides, its higher life cycle makes it fit for India where the charging infrastructure is in a nascent stage.

Disclaimer: Views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the original author and do not represent any of The Times Group or its employees.
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