Lithium auto battery- towards new age

Lithium batteries! Most of us, who use cell phones or laptops, must have heard this word. Since the early 1990s, these batteries have powered portable electronic items. Now, these batteries are recognized as future of the auto industry. Rechargeable lithium-ion battery has become increasingly popular in electronic devices as these batteries hold electric charges longer. Light weight as compared to other rechargeable batteries, is another added advantage. Lithium-ion batteries are used in various consumer electronic items like iPods, cell phones, digital cameras and laptop computers. Many car manufacturing companies are now looking forward for the use of these batteries in the cars.

To know more about new age of auto industry and lithium auto battery, continue reading.

Like all other industry, auto industry has seen lots of alterations. Since last few years, we are facing various problems like increasing fuel expenses, pollution, etc. All these have forced us to find ways inexpensive renewable energy that will reduce auto emissions as well. That has caused lithium batteries to be placed in some vehicles. Until now, overheating problems and the environmental safety with lithium batteries that affected laptops earlier appear to have been limited. Lithium auto battery is now preferred choice due to its several benefits. Most of the lithium batteries, used in automotives are lithium-ion batteries.

Let us have a look at features and chemistry of lithium ion battery.

Lithium ion battery- Chemistry

• Most lithium ion batteries use graphite as the anode. Generally, the cathode is made up of lithium cobalt oxide, lithium manganese oxide or lithium iron phosphate. The selection of cathode generally depends on the balance between charge deterioration, capacity and voltage.
• Safety is concern, because of explosions of a few mishandled lithium ion battery designs. Electrical current is produced by the movement of the lithium ion from the cathode to the anode, and is reversed while recharging. There is a thin layer or a medium between the anode and cathode. In general, it is an organic solvent plus a solid lithium salt.

Lithium ion battery-Features

• A lithium ion battery is designed specially to generate electricity through the movement of lithium ions between the anode and cathode.
• They offer one of the best power-to-weight ratios as compared to other available equivalent.
• Lithium ion batteries are rechargeable and easy to use.

Car Fire Potential

Earlier there was concern for safety of battery. Preventing Lithium-ion battery fires has been a major concern for car manufacturers. Many car makers use a computer controlled liquid cooling system, which helps avoid overheating. Overcharging a Lithium-ion battery can be dangerous as lithium oxide can turn into metallic lithium due to excess heat. This can increase the danger of a battery explosion. To address this issue, laptops make use of "smart" Lithium-ion batteries that feature integrated sensors to control current, temperature and voltage. This control can help keep the batteries comparatively safe.

It is true that lithium batteries do have some issues, but their advantages definitely make them better choice. Efforts, money and time have been invested into developing systems to address these issues. Days are no long, when lithium batteries will be used not only in laptops, cell phones but also autos safely.

Super B Batteries for superb performance

If you are one of those who love motor sports, then you must be aware of Super b batteries. Super B has built their name developing Lithium Ion starter batteries that are well known in the motor sport industry.
All Super B batteries feature integral cell balancing that help optimize the life of the battery. Further, an external under and over voltage protection system is essential for protection of a battery against damaging low and high voltages.
When it comes to performance and racing, weight is the prime concern. In addition, one needs ample and reliable power. If you are looking for this, then Super B Lithium-Ion batteries prove to be right option for you. These batteries provide bullet-proof electrical performance along with incredible weight savings. As compared to conventional lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion technology by super bbatteries is far safer, efficient and lighter too.
Let us have a look at some of the benefits you can enjoy with super b batteries-

·         Design and construction - Super b batteries are designed well and constructed carefully for its use in the hard conditions.

·         Condensed Packaging and Easier placement- Many times, Super b batteries have around one third the footprint of the lead-acid battery. It is easy to mount these batteries in any orientation, vertically or horizontally. This facilitates best possible vehicle weight distribution and easier placement.

·         Shelf life and Low Self-discharge Rate- Super b batteries can stay on the shelf or unconnected in a vehicle for longer duration. They can maintain their charge efficiently.

·         Weight Savings- as compared to a powerful lead-acid battery, weight savings can be as much as 75percent.

·         Sealed case, Hard Shell- Super b batteries do not get easily fractured or damaged. Even if it were punctured, no hazardous liquids can spill out.

·         Longer Service Life- As compared to traditional lead acid variants, which have 2-3 years service life, super b batteries offer more than 5 years of service.

·         Quick Charging- This is the best advantage of these batteries. A lead-acid battery can take around 7 to 14 hours to charge, whereas a Super B battery need 30 minutes to 1 hour only. Battery can recharge fully within five minutes of starting your engine.

·         Simple Connection- Super B battery does not need any special adapters and can be used with standard screw terminals. So, they are very easy to connect.

·         Enough reserve capacity – these batteries feature enough reserve capacity to power all sterio, electronics, and accessories of your motor.

·         Wide range- Super B has a wide range of models apt for everything from endurance racing cars to motorcycles and more.

All above points make it clear that Super b batteries offer different advantages. You need to choose correct model depending on your need and budget.

Still here?…Choose appropriate model from a range of Super b batteries and get ready to enjoy performance now. 

Explore more about Lithium battery car

Lithium ion: light and cheap
The pace of development of lithium batteries surely point towards bright future with electronic vehicles. As lithium is the lightest solid element, it is portable. Further it is cheap. So, lots of efforts and time have been put to develop lithium battery car. Most of the batteries used to power vehicles are lithium-ion batteries.
To make lithium-ion batteries practical for bulk-produced electric vehicles, it is essential to understand the concept clearly and address all the issues that can create hurdles in this track. Let us explore more about lithium battery car.

Issues to be addressed for moving towards lithium battery cars-

Energy Comparisons: Energy density is one of the most important aspects when it comes to transportation fuel. Diesel and gasoline fuel can pack a lot of energy into a comparatively small volume.  Lithium-ion batteries pack a comparatively less energy into the same space. So, electric cars have lower ranges that gas powered cars. 

Temperature Effects: Lithium-ion batteries are temperature sensitive. So, there are chances of losing energy storage in hot or cold temperature. Lithium battery can work best in temperature ranges from around -10 to 30degrees Celsius or 14 to 86degrees Fahrenheit.

Battery improvements: As mentioned above lots of efforts have been put into improvement and development of the lithium-ion car battery. Depending on the chemistry, Lithium batteries can go by several names like LiFePo4 and Li-Ion to name a few. These configurations are common nowadays.

Unstable: Another drawback of Lithium-ion battery is that it tends to be unstable. This definitely reminds us about the laptop that got fire.

A huge amount of research is going on to improve Lithium-ion batteries. Efforts are made to reduce charging time and to extend range.

Lithium: it is true that Lithium is the present battery chemistry of choice. It can prove an important step towards future with all issues and concerns resolved. Being the lightest metal, lithium has around half the weight of water. Nevertheless, pure lithium can easily catch fire when it has contact with water.

The technology has advanced quickly and the prospects for new lithium variants are bright. Lithium battery pack features many little cells. The reason to use so many cells is the easy availability. Special design helps detect and isolate any misbehaving battery cell. Thus, issues of explosion or fire can be addressed with development of useful systems. Lithium ion batteries are the best in many ways in terms of energy density.

All above points clearly indicate the need to put time, efforts and money for research and development of safe battery packs for a lithium battery car. Let us wait and hope for better future with electric cars powered by lithium battery packs.

Should I go for Lithium motorcycle batteries?

Do you want to know more about Lithium batteries? Are you planning to buy replacement lithium motorcycle batteries? If yes, then keep on reading to know more about these powerful yet light weight batteries.

Lithium motorcycle batteries are becoming increasingly popular nowadays, as they offer more performance and service life as compared to their lead equivalents. Further, higher starting performance and lower weight of these batteries, increase the power to weight ratio of a motorcycle and result into improved acceleration. In addition, it is easy to fit Lithium Motorbike batteries as a direct replacement as it copes with the charging system of a bike.

When it comes to replacing motorcycle batteries, many bike owners prefer Lithium batteries due to several advantages these batteries offer including -


Light weight- Light weight is an important advantage of these batteries. An example will clarify this. A regular 16 amp/hour battery weighs about 5kg whereas a typical replacement Lithium battery weighs 0.728 kg only.
Lithium motorcycle batteries are also much smaller than the lead-acid type. A typical 240CCA battery has a size of just 114 x 62 x81mm. This means the battery can be packaged in alternative locations on your bike where a normal lead acid battery would not fit.  These batteries also feature more available power instantly during startup, lower internal resistance and increased usable battery capacity.
When it comes to battery maintenance, apparently lithium motorcycle batteries only need charging if they drop below specified Voltage (it may differ depending on manufacturer).

Very high cranking amperage- replacement motorcycle lithium batteries have very high cranking amperage.

These batteries have a very long shelf life and are expected to stay charged for a longer period as compared to a lead-acid battery. Lithium batteries have a very low self-discharge so they could stay on a shelf without charging for 12 months and still they can start the motorcycle efficiently. Besides this, these batteries also feature fast charging times. It may vary depending on specifications and manufacturer. However, it is very less as compared to a discharged lead acid battery that takes more than 12 hours to charge to its full capacity.
Good quality Lithium batteries with inbuilt BMS systems generally cost two times good quality lead acid batteries. However, lithium motorcycle batteries feature predicted life spans of 5 to10 years. It is essential to charge it regularly with a Battery Management System to get the best results.

Charging Lithium motorcycle batteries- tips:
Using the motorcycle charging system is the best way to charge your Lithium motorcycle battery. Latest motorcycle charging system features a constant voltage regulator, which can produce a moderately high current. As mentioned above, this is the perfect charging system for a Lithium battery.
Prior to installing a Lithium battery on your motorcycle, make sure that regulating system of your motorcycle is functioning accurately.
 
All above points make it clear that lithium motorcycle batteries are the best choice. Though price is the concerning factor, the results you get are worth investment. Find the motorcycle battery that best suits your bike and get ready to ride the excellence.

Proper Care of Lithium automotive battery

Days are no longer, when electric cars will be everywhere around us. Latest advancements in battery technology have resulted into development of the lithium automotive battery. Lithium battery is used extensively in various applications due to its various benefits including long life, high energy density and light weight. As the latest Lithium-ion batteries have higher densities as compared to earlier batteries. However, they have much lower densities than conventional fuels. 

Like with any technology, it is essential to take proper care while charging Lithium-ion batteries.  As all of us know, all other rechargeable batteries like the Ni-cads, lead-acid battery, etc. are potentially dangerous if they are charged properly. All these kinds of batteries present bursting hazards with excess heat, and potential fume.  So, you need to be aware about this and use it properly.

Charging lithium batteries is a simple procedure. However, it needs the specified charge rate, correct level of voltage, etc. Ensure to read, know, and follow the safety information correctly provided with any kind of battery you buy and use.

Make sure to charge any battery only as per the instructions of a manufacturer. Always use the charger built for specific battery type.  Many people use "universal" chargers. However, such chargers may not be built for the correct voltage or charge rate. Never use such chargers.

Remember, lithium-ion battery is unlike the Ni-cad based batteries. Let us have a look at some useful tips to maintain your new lithium automotive battery packs.

• Charge battery often- Do not completely discharge the battery packs often, as this can add strain.  Normal use and partial discharges with regular recharges are well again for lithium-ion battery than one discharged totally. Recharge a partially charged li-ion battery. This will never causes any damage.
• Avoid heat- Short battery life is more probably to be caused by heat rather than discharge/charge patterns.  Try to keep the battery pack cool. For example- avoid a hot automobile.
• Never charge the battery pack just to store it away. If you want to store battery pack for a longer duration, keep the battery at a 40percent charge level.
• Always use the correct charger. Remember, each kind of battery has its own technology. Rate of charge and other specifications may differ and hence, prefer charger recommended for specific make. Charging lithium battery packs properly is one way to extend the battery life. This will also help to avoid damage.
• Never use old batteries. Many people purchase extra lithium-ion batteries for future. Certainly, it makes perfect sense to have 2-3 extra battery packs. This will make it easy for you to have a fresh one charged up and ready to go. However, it is not a great idea to just purchase batteries for future use and keep them unused around for years.

All above points will help you take proper care of your lithium automotive battery and get the most out of it.

Full spectrum batteries

Points you need to know about fullspectrum batteries

Are you one of those who are proud to have ultra light weight yet high power racing motorcycle batteries? Have you ever heard about full spectrum batteries? Are you aware what miracle these batteries can do for your bike? No matter, whether you own a small dirt bike or a full-on superbike, you will find a battery suitable for each performance machine. Full spectrum battery is the leading name in light weight lithium motorcycle batteries.

If you are planning to buy one and enjoy its excellence, you should have thorough understanding about these batteries. Let us have a look at some of the interesting points you need to know about full spectrum batteries.

Battery systems have 2 key characteristics that help choose a battery system you need.

·         Pulse Discharge Capacity – It refers to the ability of battery system to produce a power burst for 10 seconds. By comparing this with CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) of a lead acid battery, you can easily find out what battery you should select. Fullspectrum batteries are very powerful in terms of pulse discharge capacity. They are ideal where space limitations and weight reduction are primary concerns and lead-acid batteries cannot compete with FSP battery in this area. In generally, lead acid batteries weigh 5 to 6 times greater than a FSP battery system. Further, physical size is almost 4 times the FSP battery.

·         Amp Hour Capacity – It refers to the ability of a battery system to supply 1 amp for 1 hour at a specified voltage. Full spectrum batteries provide remarkable amp hour capacity for their size. For example, 6.9 amp hour battery weighing about 2lbs can supply 1amp for 6.9hours at 13.8volts. This will help you decide if this is a suitable choice for your bike.

Full spectrum battery systems are designed for race and performance use. They are not storage and deep cycle batteries transformed for race or performance use.

Charging your full spectrum battery-

All Full spectrum batteries come fully charged and are ready to install. In other words, while installing a FSP battery, you need not to charge it. Even if it is left on the shelf for six months, new battery system will feature almost 95% of full capacity.

If you want to recharge batteries still, then here are few choices –

You will need auto type battery charger that provides 5 amps for 15 minutes

You can get a FSP charger from your dealer. Buy a charger specifically designed to work with your battery system. Keep in mind that once running, a motorbike will mostly use the generator or alternator to power everything else on the bike that is PC3, headlight, CDI, ECU, etc. Therefore,  you need to be keen about your Full spectrum batteries than regular lead-acid batteries.

All above mentioned points will help you choose correct fullspectrum batteries. Get ready for the excellence now!

How to replace Lithium automotive batteries in your vehicle?

Hybrid cars- this word is buzzing around us since last few years. Lithium-ion battery is supposed to be the next generation of the hybrid car batteries. With higher energy density and lower toxicity as compared to nickel-metal hydride or lead-acid batteries, lithium batteries prove to be better option to power vehicles. Like all other products, the lithium-ion battery also have some drawbacks like a higher number of recharging cycles it needs and its tendency to weaken faster than other rechargeable equivalent available.

Depending upon the chemistry of cathode, Lithium-ion batteries may differ. Cathode is one of the two electrical conductors present in a battery. As what the cathode is made of decides the capacity of a cell, it is very crucial aspect. Main cathode materials like nickel-cobalt-manganese, Cobalt dioxide, iron phosphate, etc. may differ in safety, cost, performance and durability.

The Lithium automotive batteries are meant to outlast the car. Unless there is a defect, it is not likely for you to replace battery of your hybrid. Majority of the warranties cover Lithium automotive batteries for 8 to10 years. Therefore, if your battery is within that limit, you need not to replace the battery on your own. However, if for any reason, you have to replace battery of your hybrid, it can be done at ease. Let us have a look at steps to replace lithium automotive battery.

• First of all look for a new lithium-ion battery. You have to search for a compatible battery with your particular make or model of your car.
• If you are not aware ‘what type of battery you should buy’, you can take help of internet instructions, information, articles, etc. to find more in this regard. Refer to owner's manual. This will help you locate the placement of battery model. It will be located in the back or front of the vehicle.
• Disconnect all cables and plugs of the old battery. Do not forget to note down the order you removed them. This will help you reconnect easily by following the reverse order.
• Look if the housing bolt is present. Remove it with a ratchet wrench. Now, take the battery out and put it somewhere safely. You have to dispose it carefully later.
• Now, put the new lithium automotive battery in the space you took out the old one from. Change and tighten the housing bolt. Reconnect the wires and plugs following the earlier order.
• As mentioned earlier dispose your old battery correctly. In general, this includes making a call and getting it picked up and disposed of by a professional. Off course you have to pay the expenses for the same. Some hybrid cars do have a phone number on the battery. So, you can get it quickly. You are now done with the procedure for changing battery.
• If you face any kind of problem while following above steps, look for some professional help.

With above steps, you will definitely succeed in replacing the Lithium automotive batteries in your car on your own.

Best of luck!