Materials and constructional design for electric vehicles: A review

In this article, electric vehicles (EVs) are generally introduced, and the benefits of shifting from internal combus-tion engine (ICE) automobiles toward EVs are discussed. Batteries, as the core technology of EVs, are then ad-dressed, and various battery types are reviewed. Next, the critical role of copper as one of the primary materials essential for various EV components, as well as the expected growth in its demand in the near future, are discussed. Following that, the significance of using advanced high-strength steels (AHSSs) in the body structure of EVs to reduce weight while maintaining safety requirements is emphasized, and different types of AHSSs are generally mentioned. Subsequently, common metal forming and joining methods for manufacturing and assembling EV components are reviewed. After that, the importance of proper EV constructional design is highlighted, and the strategic battery pack placement for safety and effective weight distribution is highlighted. The importance of using lightweight materials that offer high strength-to-weight ratios in the body structure of EVs and their benefits for improving the efficiency of EVs through increasing the driving range are also outlined. In addition, the importance of responsible end-of-life actions, including recycling or responsible disposal of EV components after their func-tional lifespan, is also overviewed. Finally, useful strategies for facilitating wider adoption of EVs are discussed, and alternative options for addressing air pollution and global warming are mentioned.