Thermal modelling of Li-ion polymer battery for electric vehicle drive cycles

► A three-dimensional transient electro-thermal model of a lithium-ion polymer cell. ► A high energy density Li-ion polymer pouch cell is tested in a climatic chamber. ► In good agreement between the model prediction and the experimental test data. ► Battery thermal behaviour is predicted for two electric vehicle drive cycles. ► An effective battery thermal management is required for the severe drive cycle.