Battery electric vehicle demonstration programmes in USA and Europe have emphasised the need for a robust battery with an acceptable cost per cycle. In the UK in particular, urban delivery vehicles with lead acid batteries are close to commercial viability as replacements for the diesel or gasolene vehicle, Uncertanties on oil availability and price escalation are likely to further increase demand for the battery electric alternative. Advanced battery couples with higher energy densities are necessary for penetration into the high volume vehicle market. Of the many on-going battery programmes, no clear winner has yet emerged.
