The revolution in the battery industry advances at a vertiginous rhythm, driven by the growing demand for electric vehicles and energy storage solutions. However, this sector faces a double challenge: increase production and develop innovative technologies that redefine the future of mobility and energy. According to the report “The Revolution of the Batteries: modeling the mobility and energy of tomorrow”, published by the CAPGEMINI Research Institutethe industry is at a turning point where collaboration and digitalization will play a key role to guarantee its sustainability.
The domain of the lithium ion and the search for alternatives
Lithium ion batteries have been the dominant technology in electrification due to its high performance, scalability and a well established supply chain. However, the industry is in search of more efficient and sustainable solutions. Among them, solid state batteries emerge as a promising alternative, offering greater energy density, faster load times and greater security compared to traditional ones.
The report highlights that 76% of battery manufacturers will need to modernize or build new production lines to adapt to the new generation of cells. In addition, the digitalization of the value chain will be key to optimizing processes, improving quality and guaranteeing sustainability in the manufacture and recycling of batteries.
Digitization and sustainability: The keys to the future
According to the study, only 17% of battery manufacturers have implemented digitalization strategies, although 67% recognize their importance to improve efficiency and reduce costs. In this context, the creation of a “digital battery passport” in Europe is emerging as a solution to guarantee high environmental standards and a sustainable circular economy.
Pierre Bagnon, global intelligent industry accelerator in Capgemini, points out: “Data and digital technologies can transform the battery value chain, optimizing the management of the life cycle, from quality control to waste management and recycling. Collaboration between actors in the sector will be fundamental to achieve a sustainable future driven by batteries.”
New business models and regulatory challenges
The batteries are not only revolutionizing mobility, but they are also giving rise to new business models. According to the report, 64% of mobility companies are exploring battery exchange systems, while two thirds of automotive consider battery lease or the Baas model (“Battery As a Service”). This scheme allows electric vehicle owners to rent their batteries instead of buying them, reducing initial costs and facilitating their replacement for more advanced technologies.
However, the implementation of these models faces important challenges, such as battery standardization, adequate infrastructure development and the guarantee of longevity in cell performance. In the energy sector, 69% of companies already offer or plan to offer BAAS solutions to optimize renewable energy storage, but the lack of network infrastructure and the need for clear regulations remain key obstacles.
The battery of the future: from cars to aviation and maritime transportation
The impact of battery innovation extends beyond the automotive sector. Three out of five companies surveyed claim that the evolution of this technology will have a significant impact on cargo transport and commercial fleets in the next 5 to 10 years. In addition, industries such as aviation and maritime transport are adopting batteries in pioneering projects, such as Evtol aircraft (“Electrical Takeoff and Landing”) and electric ships for short routes.
The battery industry is at a critical point where innovation, digitalization and sustainability should converge to guarantee their growth. Overcoming production and recycling challenges will be essential to consolidate a more efficient and clean energy model. In an increasingly electrified world, the battery of the future will not only boost cars, but also the change towards a more sustainable economy.
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