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In case you haven’t noticed, cars everywhere are going electric.
While it’s not a big problem yet, it’ll be a huge one soon.
Considering that, EV battery recycling will be a massive task in the years ahead.
What Happens to Old EV Batteries?
That said, Lithium-ion batteries remain a substantial environmental hazard and have a relatively short life cycle.
Furthermore, the recycling process is complex, dangerous, and time-consuming.
That means Tesla, Ford, and others guarantee the battery for up to eight years or 100,000 miles.
Most EVs on the road aren’t that old yet, but they will be soon.
Related:How Long Do EV Batteries Last?
Are they safe, or are some leaking toxic chemicals into the ground?
We’re not sure.
Tesla is just one of many manufacturers which will face a vast battle later down the road.
Sergii Chernov/Shutterstock.com
Because, again, lithium-ion batteries, like other electronics, are toxic.
According to the siteTreeHugger, battery recycling is performed one pack at a time.
Auto manufacturers use powerful glue to keep everything safely together, which must be broken down.
It’s a nasty job that releases carbon emissions, but that’s another topic entirely.
The other problem is that Lithium-ion and nickel aren’t even the most profitable part to recycle and reuse.
That’s actually cobalt, an expensive material that’s in short supply.
Teslarecently confirmedthat half of its vehicles are now cobalt-free, and others are trying to do the same.
What’s Happening Now?
In addition, Toyota’s upcoming Prius reboot will use a solid-state battery.
Unfortunately, there is no quick fix, and this is only the beginning.
