Rivian Announces Use of LFP Battery Cells to Improve Efficiency & Affordability in Electric Vehicles
Rivian, the electric vehicle maker, has announced plans to use new types of battery cells in its vehicles. The company said in a 2021 fourth-quarter shareholder letter that it will be using lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry for its standard-level vehicles, and high-nickel chemistry for its longer-range vehicles. LFP cells do not require any nickel or cobalt, which can be expensive or hard to obtain. They are also generally considered more stable, but less energy-dense than nickel cobalt aluminum oxide cells.
An 800V system is also in development, although LFP is only planned for the smaller pack, which is not yet being produced. All current deliveries have been with the “Large” pack. LFP packs are physically larger due to their lower energy density, but offer greater stability and a longer lifespan.
The switch to LFP could be seen as an environmentally conscious move by Rivian, as this type of battery cell uses what is described as the greenest source of lithium on the planet. This could potentially come from one of the geothermal companies around the Salton Sea.
It's unclear why this news item was released so late if it was included in the Q4 2021 shareholder letter. It is also unknown whether the new battery types are already being used in current production vehicles or those delivered in 2022.
The switch to LFP could also be seen as a cost-saving measure, since the cells are cheaper than nickel cobalt aluminum oxide. This could potentially help Rivian keep its prices competitive in the electric vehicle market.
Rivian has been making waves in the EV industry with its innovative designs and technology, so it's no surprise that they're looking for ways to make their vehicles more efficient and affordable. The use of LFP battery cells is just one way they can do this while still maintaining high performance standards.
It will be interesting to see how this change affects Rivian’s production costs and customer experience going forward. It may take some time before we know if these new batteries have any effect on range or charging times, but it's clear that Rivian is committed to finding ways to improve their vehicles' efficiency and affordability without sacrificing quality or safety standards.
What types of battery cells is Rivian planning to use in its electric vehicles?
Rivian plans to use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry for its standard-level vehicles, and high-nickel chemistry for its longer-range vehicles.
What are the advantages of LFP battery cells?
LFP battery cells do not require any nickel or cobalt, which can be expensive or hard to obtain. They are also generally considered more stable, less energy-dense, and less flammable than nickel cobalt aluminum oxide cells.
Is Rivian working to lock in a supply of what has been described as the greenest source of lithium on the planet?
Yes, Rivian is looking into using lithium from geothermal companies around the Salton Sea for their battery cells.
Was this change mentioned in the 2021 fourth-quarter shareholder letter?
Yes, Rivian mentioned their plan to use new types of battery cells in their vehicles in their 2021 fourth-quarter shareholder letter.
Is Rivian using these new battery types in current production vehicles?
No, the new battery types are not yet being used in current production vehicles. All deliveries have been the “Large” pack. LFP has a lower energy density, so a LFP pack would be physically larger for the same capacity/range.
Does Rivian plan to use an 800V system?
Yes, Rivian said they are developing an 800V system. This will allow for faster charging and more efficient power delivery.
What other changes is Rivian making to its battery cells?
Rivian is also looking into using new cell designs, such as pouch cells, which are lighter and more energy-dense than traditional cylindrical cells. They are also working on new cooling systems to keep the cells from overheating during use.
How does Rivian plan to ensure that their batteries are safe and reliable?
Rivian has a rigorous testing process for all of their battery cells. This includes testing for safety, performance, and durability in extreme conditions. They also have a team of engineers dedicated to monitoring the performance of their batteries in the field.
What other steps is Rivian taking to reduce the environmental impact of their vehicles?
Rivian is committed to reducing their environmental impact by using renewable energy sources for production and operations, investing in carbon offset projects, and designing vehicles with recyclable materials. They are also working on developing new technologies to reduce the environmental impact of their vehicles, such as regenerative braking and advanced driver-assistance systems.