COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ELECTRIC VEHICLE BATTERY TECHNOLOGIES: PERFORMANCE, SAFETY, AND SUSTAINABILITY

Electric vehicles (EVs) depend on rechargeable batteries to provide driving range, power, and reliable operation. Battery chemistry affects vehicle mass, charging time, cost, safety, and environmental impact. This article reviews the main battery technologies used in electric vehicles: lead–acid, nickel–metal hydride (NiMH), lithium iron phosphate (LFP), nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC), nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA), lithium titanate (LTO), sodium-ion, and solid-state batteries. A comparative literature-review approach is used to assess energy density, durability, thermal behavior, charging performance, and application suitability. Lithium-ion batteries remain the leading technology for modern electric vehicles. LFP batteries offer favorable thermal stability and durability, while NMC and NCA batteries generally provide higher energy density. Sodium-ion batteries may become useful in cost-sensitive applications, while solid-state batteries require further development. Battery selection should consider vehicle requirements, climate, safety, lifecycle cost, and recycling.