A Short Review on Battery Thermal Management for EV Application

Abstract

Battery Thermal Management (BTM) has emerged as a critical aspect of electric vehicle (EV) technology, ensuring safety, performance, and durability of high-energy lithium-ion batteries. As EV adoption accelerates globally, maintaining optimal temperature ranges is essential to prevent thermal runaway, enhance charge–discharge efficiency, and extend battery life. Modern BTM systems integrate active and passive cooling techniques, including liquid cooling, heat pipes, phase change materials, and advanced insulation, to manage heat generation from electrochemical reactions. Innovations such as nano-enhanced composites, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven predictive models, and Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled monitoring are reshaping the field by enabling real-time thermal control and predictive maintenance. Furthermore, advances in solid-state batteries and energy-dense chemistries like nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA) require robust thermal strategies to maintain safety under extreme conditions and during fast charging. Emerging trends show a transition toward lightweight, modular, and highly efficient thermal systems that minimize energy losses while supporting sustainable EV development. The integration of advanced materials, smart sensors, and machine learning will drive the next generation of BTM, supporting reliable energy storage and long-term environmental goals. This review synthesizes current technologies, challenges, and future opportunities, offering insights into designing efficient thermal systems for EV batteries.