Hyundai, the South Korean automaker, is reportedly planning to launch its first electric vehicle (EV) with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries later this year. The upcoming EV will be equipped with cell-to-pack technology, which has been licensed by CATL to Hyundai Mobis in 2021, according to The Elec.
The use of LFP cells in the new EV is significant, as it would be the first car from the Hyundai Motor Group to incorporate this technology worldwide. Kia, another subsidiary of the Hyundai Motor Group, has also announced that its second-generation Kia Ray EV minivan will use LFP batteries supplied by CATL.
The cell-to-pack technology integrates the cells directly into the battery pack, eliminating the need for modules that are typically combined to form the battery pack. This compensates for the lower energy density of LFP cells, which is a significant disadvantage compared to NCM cells. As a result, the advantages of LFP cells, such as lower costs and robustness, can be leveraged.
See also: CATL to provide lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries for Solaris electric buses
The Kia Ray EV is primarily sold in South Korea and is designed as a city car that drives a limited number of daily miles. The vehicle’s range is not a priority, given its intended use. The technical specifications of the new Kia Ray EV, which is set to be unveiled later this year, are currently unknown.
The upcoming Kia Ray EV will be powered by BorgWarner’s 400-volt powertrain, for which Hyundai has placed orders in June 2021 and August 2022. The first generation of the electric minivan was introduced in 2012, featuring an angular design.
Last summer, there were reports that Hyundai was developing two EV minivans priced under 20,000 euros, which could be offered as a replacement for the Hyundai i10 combustion model in the European market. However, it remains unclear if the new Kia Ray EV or a Hyundai-branded variant will fulfill this role.
