“钠电池热”持续升温，其究竟有哪些过人之处？

Core Viewpoint - The emergence of sodium-ion batteries marks a significant shift in the energy storage landscape, with expectations for large-scale applications in the passenger vehicle sector, driven by their advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries [2][3]. Industry Overview - Sodium-ion batteries are gaining traction due to their abundant resource availability, wide temperature range, long cycle life, and high safety, transitioning from laboratory settings to commercial applications in various fields such as start-stop batteries, energy storage, and power batteries [2]. - The rise of sodium-ion batteries is seen as a necessary response to energy challenges and market demands, showcasing theoretical advantages in energy density, charging speed, lifespan, low-temperature performance, and zero-volt recovery compared to lithium-ion batteries [3]. Resource Availability - Lithium resources are becoming increasingly constrained, with only 0.0065% of the Earth's crust containing lithium, primarily concentrated in the "lithium triangle" of South America, leading to supply chain vulnerabilities and cost control issues for the electric vehicle industry [4]. - In contrast, sodium is significantly more abundant, with a crustal content of 2.74%, making it 421 times more plentiful than lithium, thus eliminating resource bottlenecks and geopolitical risks [4]. Technological Advancements - Sodium-ion batteries have undergone significant technological advancements, improving energy density and cycle life, making them commercially viable after being overlooked for decades [6]. - The cost advantages of sodium-ion batteries stem from not requiring expensive rare metals like cobalt and nickel, resulting in a 30%-40% reduction in raw material costs compared to lithium-ion batteries [7]. Performance Characteristics - Sodium-ion batteries excel in low-temperature performance, maintaining over 80% capacity at -20°C, compared to less than 50% for traditional lithium iron phosphate batteries, making them suitable for cold climates [7]. - Safety features of sodium-ion batteries include low heat generation under short-circuit conditions, stability during extreme tests, and the ability to be transported at 0V, enhancing safety during use and logistics [8]. Market Positioning - In the passenger vehicle market, sodium-ion batteries are positioned to complement lithium-ion batteries, with the former targeting entry-level vehicles due to their lower cost and superior low-temperature performance, while lithium-ion batteries dominate the high-end segment [9]. - In the commercial vehicle sector, sodium-ion batteries are advantageous for short-distance applications like urban delivery and sanitation vehicles, where cost and safety are critical, while lithium-ion batteries are preferred for long-haul transport [10]. Future Outlook - The evolution of sodium-ion batteries represents a significant technological advancement in the electric vehicle industry, indicating a dual-track future where both sodium and lithium technologies coexist and drive market diversification [10].