To LFP or not to LFP
December 12, 2023
LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries promise a lower-cost alternative, but is it really that simple?
We've seen companies, after investing years in NMC platform development, switch to LFP, only to face unexpected delays in lab testing, BMS development, and pack design.
Pros of Adopting LFP:
🔋 Longer Lifespan: LFP offers more cycles, less degradation than NMC.
🌱 Safer Chemistry: Reduced fire risk, stable at high temperatures with LFP.
💰 Lower Material Cost: Iron in LFP cheaper than NMC's nickel, cobalt.
🌍 Eco-Friendlier Materials: LFP uses more abundant, less environmentally damaging materials.
Cons of Adopting LFP:
📉 Lower Energy Density: LFP provides less range per weight than NMC.
⚡ Complex BMS for Voltage Hysteresis: Managing LFP's voltage plateau requires advanced BMS.
💸 Higher Development Costs: Adapting to LFP requires investment in new platform, technology.
📚 Less Historical Data: More extensive performance data available for NMC than LFP.
For LFP batteries, like the Lithium Werks M1B, used in motorsports, telecommunications, power tools, and much more, we're building models to significantly reduce these project delays. Our goal is to streamline new platform development, making the switch to LFP easier.