Scientists Explore Alternative EV Battery Technologies to Eliminate Emissions and Boost Adoption

Scientists are researching alternative EV battery technologies to eliminate combustion engines and reduce greenhouse gases. Lithium-ion batteries currently dominate but have drawbacks like range anxiety and high cost.

Researchers in Japan found adding caffeine to fuel cell electrolytes boosts efficiency by limiting platinum hydroxide buildup. This could reduce the high cost of fuel cells.

Other battery research explores using cheaper materials like iron, nickel, and manganese instead of scarce cobalt. Sodium is also being tested as a cheaper lithium alternative.

AI and supercomputers have identified 500,000 possible new battery materials. One material could match lithium batteries with 70% less lithium, dramatically cutting costs.

Most research ends up going nowhere, but with creative thinking and advanced technology, scientists keep searching for the breakthroughs needed to make EVs mainstream.