A Closed-Loop Cycle for Traction Batteries: Critical Elements and Potential Solutions in the Value Chain

Authors

Dipl.-Kfm. A. Franz, A. Calvosa MSc, C. Schön MSc RWTH, LKQ Europe GmbH, Zug; Prof. Dr.-Ing. A. Kampker MBA, C. Offermanns MSc RWTH, D. Klohs MSc RWTH, RWTH Aachen University:

Year

2022

Print Info

Production/Publication ÖVK

Summary

The transport sector accounts for approximately one fourth of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions [1]. Cutting these emissions has been a major driver of the development of alternative powertrains for road vehicles in recent years. Especially, battery electric vehicles offer zero tailpipe emissions and have shown significant reduction in lifecycle emissions compared to combustion engine vehicles in recent studies, which is set to further improve with increasing renewable energy generation [2].

However, traction batteries are not free from criticism as their manufacturing is accountable for high cost and significant emissions. As the most valuable part in the electric drivetrain, the battery also plays a crucial role when it comes to residual values of used electric vehicles and, eventually, handling of batteries once their state of health is not feasible for vehicle applications anymore. With traditional combustion engine vehicles, handling of used and spare parts as well as end of life vehicles are mature processes in the automotive aftermarket. With electric vehicles, dealing with used batteries and their components becomes even more important to facilitate a circular economy that can enable a truly sustainable mobility. Therefore, this paper investigates the impact of cost and emissions of traction batteries to be processed in the vehicle spare part and repair business. After a market forecast for new electric vehicles and thus battery sales, three scenarios with different degrees of circularity are derived. With the development of a calculation model, we then quantify cost and emission benefits of a closed-loop cycle. Lastly, we reflect the findings and give an outlook on solutions for realization.

ISBN

1920-2323-23-1

Number of pages

22 Order Members Login