KPIT develops sodium-ion battery tech for sustainable mobility

Automotive software integrator KPIT Technologies has unveiled its sodium (Na)-ion battery technology for e-mobility applications in India, especially for electric two and 3-wheelers and commercial vehicles, along with other stationary deployments including UPS backups and grid storage. 

The technology promises to reduce import dependency on core battery materials, mainly lithium, along with enhanced relative performance than lithium-ion chemistries, thereby making way for affordable electric mobility, the company claims. 

An example of industry-academia collaboration between KPIT and the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, the latter's team led by Dr. Satishchandra Ogale is credited to have made remarkable contributions to material synthesis, characterization and battery testing.

Commenting on development, Ravi Pandit, Co-founder and Chairman of KPIT Technologies, said, "Sustainability is at the heart of KPIT's vision. We are working on multiple technologies to reimagine mobility and accelerate the push towards cleaner transportation. As the electric mobility ecosystem matured, we were cognizant of having alternate battery technologies and localizing the storage value chain". 

He further added, "Our Sodium-ion battery technology, completely reliant on Earth's abundant raw materials, is another testament to KPIT's commitment towards the sustainable mobility ecosystem. We look forward to partnering with manufacturing companies to commercialize this technology globally."

According to the company, the sodium-ion battery technology offers an extended lifespan with 80 percent capacity retention for 3000-6000 cycles and faster charging capability as compared to lithium batteries. The technology encompasses multiple variants having distinct performance characteristics and energy density ranging from 100-170 Wh/Kg, it adds.

Further, the sodium batteries are said to have excellent high-temperature tolerance with minimal thermal management, thereby enhancing safety. These propositions make the technology more viable and effective for addordable e-mobility, KPIT claims.

As a core technology company, KPIT will continue to enhance battery technology, and is inviting partners to manufacture and commercialize the battery technology in relevant global markets.