Northvolt develops sodium batteries with an energy density of 160Wh per kilogram

Swedish battery maker Northvolt has developed its first sodium battery cells. According to the manufacturer, these have a capacity of ‘more than’ 160Wh per kilogram and should be safer, more cost-efficient and more durable than other battery types, such as lithium ion batteries.

Northvolt confirms that the company has validated its sodium battery at its own R&D campus in Sweden. According to the manufacturer, the validated cell is safer, more cost-efficient and more durable than, for example, NMC or LFP batteries. The batteries are produced with, for example, iron and sodium, sodium in English. Sodium batteries are therefore free of raw materials such as lithium, nickel, cobalt and graphite. Northvolt mentions the density of 160Wh/kg in its press release, but says nothing concrete about the lifespan of the battery cells.

The first generation of Northvolt sodium batteries is mainly intended for energy storage due to their low costs and safety at high temperatures, Northvolt claims. Next generations must offer a higher energy density and therefore also be suitable for use in ‘electric mobility products’. The batteries will be an addition to existing lithium-ion batteries for cars and… of lithium metal batteries which the company develops for aviation and other vehicles.

Tweakers previously wrote a background story about sodium batteries. This battery type must be cheaper and more environmentally friendly to produce. The required raw materials are also more abundant than, for example, lithium. The Chinese CATL previously introduced a sodium battery.