EV batteries are typically designed to last over 300,000 miles, and once disused by cars they still have a capacity of up to 70%, according to Nissan and EFD. This may not be enough for fast-accelerating cars, but is certainly sufficient for energy storage.
Second-life battery project often incorporate manufacturers of electric vehicles. In October, EDF Energy and Nissan embarked on a project that combines used EV batteries with demand response. Wärtsilä and Hyundai Motor joined forces already back in 2018 to develop second-life EV batteries in Germany, with Hyundai estimating there will be 29 GW of second-life EV batteries available by 2025.
The latest research by Cummins and UC San Diego is investigating the performance of stationary energy storage - made from second-life EV batteries - for embedded grid storage. University researchers will perform tests and develop an outdoor second-life demonstration system comprised of Cummins battery modules.
The collaboration will give Cummin access to valuable data on the aging behaviors of its battery modules. It can test the grid-integration of for second-life batteries, and validate the performance stationary energy storage for grid balancing proposes.
Electrification for deemed crucial for decarbonizing transport and other industries, if implemented in a sustainable way. “One piece of the puzzle that requires additional research is the second-life of batteries, and Cummins now has a highly-skilled and capable partner in UC San Diego as we move towards the development of reuse solutions." said Julie Furber, vice president electrified power at Cummins.
“Cummins is the nexus between the transportation and stationary energy storage sectors,” said Mike Ferry, Director of Energy Storage and Systems at the Center for Energy Research, University of California San Diego. “Battery module design is a crucial aspect to making second-life more feasible and their experience will be invaluable as we continue to develop solutions. Given their reputation, global footprint, and all they’ve accomplished in the last century, it’s a real privilege to partner with them on this project.”
Founded in 2018, Cummins’ electrified power business designs and manufactures fully electric and hybrid powertrain systems along with components and subsystems help commercial markets adopt electrification.