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Scaling the electric vehicle economy
OBEC paves Canada's path to building a green economy and maximizing impact on both technological and economic development
OBEC paves Canada's path to building a green economy and maximizing impact on both technological and economic development
By Jordan Flemming University RelationsDr. Linda Nazar
Professor, Chemistry
> Canada Research Chair, Solid State Energy Materials
> Ontario Battery and Electrochemistry-research Centre
As electric vehicle (EV) adoption speeds up, Canada's capacity to produce batteries is struggling to keep pace with the growing demand.
The Ontario Battery and Electrochemistry Research Centre (OBEC) is at the forefront of Canada's efforts to scale the EV economy. Co-led by Dr. Linda Nazar and Dr. Michael Pope, the centre brings together an interdisciplinary team focused on addressing key challenges in battery technologies.
“Lithium is becoming increasingly scarce, and our current infrastructure is not equipped to meet the rising number of EV drivers,” Pope says. This scarcity, coupled with limited charging infrastructure highlight the pressing need for next-generation battery technology and a scalable energy ecosystem.
OBEC researchers are exploring alternative elements to lithium-based batteries, such as zinc and sodium, to reduce reliance on scarce materials and improve battery performance.
Dr. Michael Pope
Professor, Chemical Engineering
> Ontario Battery and Electrochemistry-research Centre
“Next-generation batteries present enormous challenges because they require integrating complex chemistry and material science to create lower-cost, safer and longer-lasting energy storage solutions,” Nazar explains. “We are pushing the boundaries of battery chemistry to create sustainable and efficient solutions for the future of transportation and beyond.”
The centre's work aims to innovate and train the next generation of talent equipped to support the growing EV battery industry. OBEC’s efforts extend beyond the lab through strong industry partnerships, including automakers and energy companies.
“Our goal is to work hand in hand with industry leaders to ensure that Canada remains competitive in the global EV market,” Pope adds. By leveraging these partnerships, OBEC is positioning Canada as a leader in EV research and development, poised to meet both the technological and economic demands of a green economy.
“Canada could have tremendous technologies in this field. It’s not a matter of capability but of ramping up our efforts and creating a supportive environment for innovation and industry growth,” Nazar says.
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