Smaller EV batteries, longer range? Scientists may have found a way

Scientists have developed a new technology that could make electric vehicle batteries smaller, lighter, and longer-lasting, potentially allowing cars to travel farther on a single charge. By borrowing precision manufacturing techniques from computer chip production, they found a way to prevent damaging lithium buildup that has held back next-generation batteries. Smaller EV batteries, longer range? Scientists may have found a way.

Scientists may have found a way Date: October 28, 2026. Scientists at KAIST have found a way to address a major weakness of anode-free batteries, which eliminate conventional materials such as graphite to reduce battery size and weight. Although these batteries can store more energy in less space, their lifespan is often limited by the formation of sharp lithium structures during charging.

The researchers tackled this problem by adapting precision manufacturing techniques from the semiconductor industry, allowing lithium to accumulate more evenly while encouraging the development of a durable protective layer. On September 22, KAIST (President Choongsik Bae) announced the breakthrough by a collaborative team led by Professors Jinwoo Lee and Hee-Tae Jung of its Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. The project also involved scientists from Kyungpook National University (President Heo Young-woo) and the National NanoFab Center (President Park Heung Soo).