Stellantis is Changing Battery Technology

Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares announced that brands within the Stellantis Group will start using the LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery system to enhance competitiveness in the lower and mid-range electric vehicle segments. But what is LFP, and how does it differ from the commonly used lithium-ion battery technology?

LFP is actually a type of lithium-ion battery. LFP batteries contain lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) as the cathode and graphite as the anode. Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries that contain uncommon metals such as cobalt and nickel, LFP batteries are made from cheaper materials like iron and phosphate. This makes LFP battery technology a cost-effective solution in the automotive sector.

LFP batteries have lower environmental impact due to containing less toxic materials, and their production and recycling are much easier and cost-effective compared to regular lithium-ion cells. Despite the disadvantages of lower energy density, lower voltage tolerance, and heavier weight, LFP batteries, which have a 67% longer lifespan, are already being used by Chinese brands and in the Standard Range battery of the Tesla Model 3. With the expiration of a Chinese-origin patent in 2022, allowing the production of LFP batteries without licensing, an increase in the usage of LFP batteries in electric vehicles is expected, reaching a predicted 31%.