Reshoring EV Batteries: A Brighter Future?

June 2023
Cornell University

Introduction

Dive into the electrifying world of EV batteries with a fresh study from Cornell University! Unpack how the U.S. might shift gear towards making our own electric-vehicle batteries, reducing our carbon tire tracks, and steering clear of unpredictable global supply chain traffic jams. This study doesn't just charge through the basics; it conducts a full life-cycle analysis from raw materials to your garage. Will reshoring spark a brighter, greener future, or is it just a lot of hot air? Plug in to find out!

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Why It Matters

Discover how this topic shapes your world and future

Powering Our Future, One Battery at a Time

Imagine a world where the air is cleaner, the cars we drive don't pollute, and we're not dependent on other countries for our energy needs. This future isn't just a dream—it's becoming a reality through the use of electric vehicles (EVs). A key component of these vehicles is their batteries, which store the energy needed to drive them. However, most of these batteries are made far from where they're used, leading to a complex web of environmental and political issues. A recent study dives into the idea of bringing battery production closer to home, or "reshoring," and how this move could make EVs even more beneficial for our planet and society. This isn't just about cars; it's about how we can make smarter choices in technology and policy to build a sustainable future. For you, this topic could spark ideas on how technology shapes our world and the role you might play in this exciting transition.

Speak like a Scholar

Reshoring

Moving the production of goods back to the country where they are consumed, in this case, bringing battery manufacturing back to the U.S.

Sustainability

The ability to maintain something at a certain rate or level, especially without causing damage to the environment or depleting resources.

Carbon footprint

The total amount of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide and methane, that are generated by our actions.

Lifecycle analysis

A technique to assess environmental impacts associated with all the stages of a product's life, from raw material extraction through materials processing, manufacture, distribution, use, repair and maintenance, and disposal or recycling.

Renewable energy

Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.

Supply chain

The entire system of producing and delivering a product or service, from the initial sourcing of materials to the final delivery to consumers.

Independent Research Ideas

The role of recycled materials in reducing the environmental impact of EV batteries

Investigate how using recycled aluminum and nickel could make EV batteries more sustainable.

Comparative analysis of reshoring vs. ally-shoring strategies

Explore the benefits and drawbacks of bringing production back to the U.S. versus relocating it to allied countries.

Impact of renewable energy integration on EV battery production

Study how increasing the use of renewable energy sources in the production of EV batteries could affect their environmental sustainability.

Technological advances and their influence on the EV battery lifecycle

Examine how new technologies could improve the manufacturing process and overall lifecycle of EV batteries.

Environmental trade-offs in global EV battery supply chains

Investigate the environmental consequences of sourcing materials from different parts of the world and how strategic supply chain restructuring can mitigate these impacts.

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