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A123 Starter Battery Claims More Power, Less Weight

The latest lithium-ion starter battery from Livonia, Mich.-based A123 Systems LCC is about 60% lighter and delivers 25% more cold cranking power than a traditional lead-acid battery, according to the company.

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The latest lithium-ion starter battery from Livonia, Mich.-based A123 Systems LCC is about 60% lighter and delivers 25% more cold cranking power than a traditional lead-acid battery, according to the company.

The company's third-generation system is a 60 amp-hour unit that weighs 22 lbs (10-kg) and provides 900 amps of cold cranking at 0 F (-18 C).

A123 describes its proprietary lithium iron phosphate chemistry as chemically stable and providing dramatically improved cycle life, charge/discharge rates and durability. The company boasts its battery provides as much as four times the life of a standard lead-acid unit.

A123 designed its new battery for micro-hybrid vehicles: cars with 12-volt electrical systems that support engine stop-start and regenerative braking capabilities. The company has been supplying lithium-ion starter batteries to carmakers in Europe since 2013.

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