Toward sustainable electric vehicle battery materials: Frontier chemistries and global challenges

The rapid electrification of transportation is driving increased demand for lithium-ion batteries that deliver high energy density, fast-charging capability, enhanced safety, and extended cycle life key requirements for sustainable energy systems. This review critically assesses recent developments in cathode, anode, electrolyte, and separator materials, emphasizing the role of materials chemistry and interfacial stability in governing electrochemical performance. Lithium iron phosphate exhibits superior thermal stability and durability, while nickel-rich layered oxides (NMC, NCA) offer higher energy density but face challenges related to cost, degradation, and thermal management. Nickel-manganese oxides provide cost-effective alternatives with compromises in longevity. Although graphite remains the dominant anode, lithium plating under high-rate conditions has prompted exploration of alternatives such as TiNb₂O₇ and MoS₂. Advances in electrolytes and separator technologies have improved ionic transport and safety; however, challenges in scalability and long-term stability persist. In addition to electrochemical performance, this review further evaluates sustainability, manufacturing scalability, resource criticality, and commercialization challenges within an integrated EV-centric framework relevant to next-generation battery deployment.