Are LFP and NMC batteries the cheapest?

Efforts to increase the manganese content in both LFP and NMC batteries aim to boost energy density while keeping costs low. Additionally, IEA states that Chinese batteries, predominantly LFP, are the cheapest, followed by those in North America and Europe.

Are LFP cells cheaper than NMC cells?

These packs and cells had the lowest global weighted-average prices, at $130/kWh and $95/kWh, respectively. This is the first year that BNEF’s analysis found LFP average cell prices falling below $100/kWh. On average, LFP cells were 32% cheaper than lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) cells in 2023.

Why are lithium iron phosphate batteries so expensive?

According to IEA’s latest report, the price of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries was heavily impacted by the surge in battery mineral prices over the past two years, primarily due to the increased cost of lithium, its critical mineral component.

Are LFP batteries the future of EVs?

According to the report, one of the standout developments over the past five years has been the rise of LFP batteries. Once a minor player, LFP now supplies over 40% of global EV demand by capacity as of 2023, a significant increase from its share in 2020. China largely drives this surge, where LFP batteries powered two-thirds of EV sales in 2023.

Will China be able to mine a battery-grade lithium salt?

The huge concern right now is being able to mine and process these reserves into battery-grade lithium salts in record time to meet the demand, especially considering that new mines can take up to 15-20 years to become operational. China has spent the last decade setting up its supply chain.

Why are LFP cells so popular?

LFP cells are incresingly popular in commercial applications because they are cheaper to build and offer greater safety performance, while absolute range in those use cases is less of a concern (eg urban use/short journeys).