The difference between lithium batteries and lead-acid batteries

As we all know, the current batteries of electric vehicles are mainly divided into lithium batteries and lead-acid batteries. For the same car, many brand models have also launched two kinds of lithium batteries and lead-acid batteries. Many consumers are confused about this. What do lithium batteries and lead-acid batteries mean for electric vehicles? What impact will the battery type have on the use of electric vehicles?

Lead-acid batteries have been widely adopted by the electric vehicle industry for a long time. The most important reason is the mature technology and low cost of use. Lead-acid batteries do not need to be adapted, and the production is relatively simple. The price of branded 60V 20Ah lead-acid battery packs is only about 1,000 yuan. However, the biggest problem with lead-acid batteries is their low energy density. Conventional 60V 20Ah lead-acid batteries often weigh more than 35Kg, which not only increases the vehicle’s own weight, but also affects the vehicle’s battery life and handling. aspect.

At present, most of the lithium batteries used in electric vehicles use 18650 cell packaging and adaptation, and the production process is complicated, so the price is generally higher. The price of domestic 60V 20Ah lithium batteries is generally above 1,500 yuan, and the price of some battery packs encapsulated with imported cells is close to 3,000 yuan. However, the weight of the same capacity lithium battery is often less than 10Kg, and the volume is only half of the lead-acid battery.

In terms of service life, the cycle times of lead-acid batteries are about 300-400, and the normal service life is 1-2 years. Even if properly maintained, lead-acid batteries over 3 years will have a significant reduction in battery life. , At this time, the user needs to replace the battery. The number of cycles of lithium batteries is usually 800-1200, and the normal life span is 3-5 years. If properly maintained, the life span is longer, which effectively reduces the trouble for users to replace the battery.

The lead-acid battery has a relatively large weight, so most models have the battery pack fixed in the car, and it is very difficult to take the battery out and charge it indoors. Therefore, for urban users (especially the high-rise buildings of homes), there are considerable obstacles to the charging of lead-acid battery electric vehicles. At this point, the advantage of lithium batteries is very obvious. Almost all lithium battery models can take out the battery for charging.

In summary, lithium battery models outperform lead-acid models in terms of battery life, battery life, vehicle handling, and charging convenience. The biggest advantage of lead-acid models is price.