JCI Unveils 48-Volt Battery for Micro-Hybrids
Johnson Controls Inc. is rolling out a compact lithium-ion battery for what it sees as a burgeoning market for low-cost micro-hybrid systems that could boost a vehicle's fuel economy 15%-20%.
#economics #hybrid
Johnson Controls Inc. is rolling out a compact lithium-ion battery for what it sees as a burgeoning market for low-cost micro-hybrid systems that could boost a vehicle's fuel economy 15%-20%.
General Motors Co. has promoted the concept with its eAssist system, which uses a 115-volt lithium-ion battery to briefly boost powertrain torque. Such architectures are not intended to propel the vehicle solely with electricity.
JCI says its 48-volt approach offers similar benefits at lower cost. The system pairs a lithium-ion battery with a standard 12-volt lead-acid unit. The higher-voltage battery is dedicated to an auxiliary electrical drive and such power-hungry systems as electric air conditioning and active chassis technologies. The lower-power battery is used to handle the more moderate demands of lighting, audio and other such accessories.
JCI says future versions of its micro hybrid system will incorporate both batteries in a single case. The company predicts its technology will be adopted first in Europe, then move to the American market and become widely used by 2020.
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