Ken Ball

PEN previously reported the planned shift from 14-volt (12-volt lead acid batteries) to 42-volt systems set to begin in 2004. Better performing batteries now have two carrots--the higher voltage sources soon to be standard in all cars plus larger batteries for the oncoming array of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).

Current HEV prototypes and small test fleets use battery systems ranging from 144 volts to 288 volts; the higher voltages provide greater drive motor efficiencies. Increased battery power densities and lower costs are high on the wish lists of auto manufacturers who see the HEVs as offering a drastic drop in per mile emissions, thereby easing government and environmentalist complaints.

German battery maker GAIA in cooperation with the Lithium Technology Corporation (LTC)has produced a new 42-volt battery comprised of a stack of lithium flat cells. The 7" x 7.5" x 12 " battery can store 27 amp-hours and provide pulses of 200 amps for starting. Battery life is estimated to be about 8 years. The new lithium battery is expected to be more cost effective than lead-acid or nickel-metal hydride batteries. BMW will be running the initial testing for a consortium of European automakers.