Electric cars recharged quicker with Australian technology

A new generation of nanoscale cathode materials, developed by Australian scientists, is set to revolutionise electric vehicles globally. This technological innovation will enable electric vehicles to be recharged in about the same time as it takes to fill a tank of petrol. Drivers will no longer have to recharge overnight or swap batteries to keep on the road. This dramatic shift will result in a more environmentally friendly and effective rechargeable battery for all drivers to use.

The technology developed by Australian company VSPC Ltd (Very Small Particle Company) is commercialising nanoscale complex metal oxides using its patented manufacturing process. The company will develop nanoscale lithium ion phosphate (LFP) for use in hybrid and electric cars.

The Federal Government through its Green Car Innovation Fund (GCIF) has confirmed a commitment to invest $2.09 million in VSPC to accelerate the final development of VSPC’s electric car batteries. The money will be used to optimise VSPC’s technology to enable manufacturing to be scaled up to commercial production levels.

VSPC’s technology has already received significant international attention from the world’s automotive industry and battery manufacturers, all of which are pushing for market leadership in the development of electric vehicles that are cheaper to run, safer and more reliable. Almost every major car manufacturer has an electric vehicle either in production or due for release in the next five years and VSPC’s nanoscale cathode materials can enhance battery performance and these materials can account for up to 40% of the cost of a battery.

The advantages of using VSPC’s LFP batteries are said to be proven and once produced in commercial quantities will be of benefit to drivers, passengers and pedestrians alike. As well as showing improved performance and a longer life, the most significant impact will be on the environment, where it is claimed greenhouse gas emissions may be reduced by up to 90% if relying on renewable energy for recharging.