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New Brazilian technology promises to revolutionize clean energy storage. Discover how niobium batteries are transforming the market and why Brazil is betting on this innovative advance!
Brazil is emerging as a leader in innovation in the clean energy sector with the development of a revolutionary technology: lithium-ion batteries enriched with niobium. This innovation, the result of a strategic partnership between CBMM, Toshiba and Volkswagen Trucks and Busess, not only improves energy storage efficiency, but also redefines global sustainability standards. As a milestone in this technology, the country launched the first electric bus powered by niobium batteries, standing out in the transition to more sustainable and efficient mobility.
In addition to offering greater durability and ultra-fast recharges, these batteries have the potential to reduce operating costs and carbon emissions, solidifying Brazil's role at the forefront of clean energy.
Understand the advantages of niobium batteries for storing clean energy
With advantages such as ultra-fast charging and greater durability, niobium batteries place Brazil at the forefront of the global clean energy market. In addition, the development of this Brazilian technology highlights the potential of Brazil's niobium reserves, which represent 98% of the world's total. This revolution not only impacts electric mobility, but also opens up new possibilities for everyday applications.
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Niobium batteries offer several advantages over traditional lithium batteries. Firstly, they allow for recharging in just 10 minutes, the equivalent of the average time it takes to refuel a combustion vehicle. This new Brazilian technology reduces waiting times without compromising energy efficiency.
Another difference is durability. Studies indicate that these niobium batteries can withstand up to 10 charge cycles, which is equivalent to around 20 years of use, completely changing the way clean energy is stored. Compared to traditional batteries, their useful life is up to three times longer.
Furthermore, niobium offers greater safety, eliminating the risk of overheating and explosions, which are common in fast charging. These advances make the new Brazilian technology ideal for applications that require exceptional performance, such as electric vehicles and high-demand energy storage systems.
Electric bus with niobium batteries delivers 60 km of autonomy
Brazil has invested significantly in the development of this technology for the clean energy storage sector. First of all, CBMM, the world leader in niobium production, opened the first unit dedicated to the production of batteries with this material. The partnership with Toshiba, closed in 2018, as well as with Volkswagen Trucks and Buses, resulted in the prototype of the first electric bus powered by niobium batteries.
With a range of 60 km and a recharge time of just 10 minutes, the model is, above all, a milestone in electric mobility. Equipped with four lithium battery packs with niobium anode, each with a capacity of 30 kWh, the prototype demonstrates, in short, the viability of this Brazilian technology in practical applications.
What makes this Brazilian technology even more interesting is that Brazil has 98% of the world's niobium reserves, representing around 63% of world production.
Brazil's future in the energy storage market
The use of niobium in clean energy storage positions Brazil as a leader in a strategic sector. Although they do not replace traditional batteries, niobium batteries are essential for situations that require ultra-fast charging, greater durability and safety.
The technology leverages Brazil’s vast niobium reserves, strengthening the country as a global leader in sustainable energy solutions. With the support of major partnerships, Brazil is shaping the future of electric mobility and of energy storage.
In this way, the advancement of niobium batteries demonstrates Brazil’s potential to lead technological revolutions. With fast recharges, greater safety and durability, this new Brazilian technology has everything it needs to transform the clean energy market. Furthermore, it reaffirms the strategic importance of partnerships between Brazilian and international companies.
It's a shame that all niobium is being sold to foreign mining companies. Soon we will be buying imported niobium batteries at a very high price, as the raw material is Brazilian.
Yes, it will not be different from oil.
Which export claiming to be very viscous.
In fact, it was a lack of investment in refineries.
I agree, let's sell niobium at a **** price and buy Chinese batteries at a gold price, as is the case today with iron.
Its president stole money from the Pecém II refinery
True, just like what happens with steel and others. In fact, niobium is already being negotiated with China and I think they are even 'giving' everything to them.
Yes, producing in Brazil is impossible. CLT, licenses and more licenses, 325 thousand taxes and lots of inspectors bothering you all the time.
The narrative that Joseph was right about is correct.
And who controls CBMM and Mineração de Catalão, the “owners” of Brazilian niobium?
It's from the Itaú group!
Moreira Salles family, who made a fortune smuggling dollars in diplomatic remittances and later established Unibanco.