Electric Vehicle Batteries End-of-Life Management: A Systematic Literature Review of Return Rates and Influential Factors

While the global commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050, particularly in the United States, underscores the urgency of mitigating environmental challenges within specific sectors. The transport sector, responsible for 70% of road transportation emissions, has witnessed a notable shift towards Electric Vehicles (EVs) as a key strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, this transition introduces an immediate concern in managing end-of-life Electric Vehicle Batteries (EVBs), encompassing remanufacturing, refurbishing, repurposing, and other processes. Despite the environmental benefits of EVs, the surge in spent Lithium-ion Batteries (LIBs), commonly found in the majority of EVB packs, poses a multifaceted challenge. Barriers to a circular supply chain for EVBs, identified in prior studies, underscore the necessity of addressing uncertainties in the quantity and quality of spent batteries. This literature review explores the under-studied arca of EVB return prediction modeling. As a preliminary step towards developing a new modeling approach, this study aims to identify the underlying factors that influence EVB return rates. By conducting a systematic analysis following PRISMA guidelines, this paper aims to bridge the gap in understanding the comprehensive methods employed in prior research and the factors influencing return rates. The structured methodology employed in this review, encompassing theoretical foundations, content analysis, and future research considerations, enriches the ongoing research on sustainable EVB management.