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Content archived on 2024-05-24

Advanced processes and technologies for cost effective highly efficient batteries for fuel saving cars (PROBATT)

Objective

Objectives and Problems to be Solved:
A general feature of all developments aiming at higher fuel economy as well as at a drastic reduction of detrimental waste gases is the increasing employment of electric components. This is especially true for hybrid cars with a power assist battery, but also for other car concepts with new electric on board systems. These cars require a small, low weight energy-storing unit capable of delivering high power pulses under discharge. For reclaiming energy during braking they must be capable of absorbing high peak power pulses. Improving the fuel economy and reducing waste gas emissions requires an increased number of electrical control units. To operate them efficiently, it is necessary to employ a higher voltage vehicle electric power supply system, which must be also capable of delivering high-energy throughput over its life. The battery system must be able of providing sufficient performance over the whole temperature range from -30 °C to +60 °C.
Description of Work:
To address the power storage requirements of these concepts the project aims to develop a Nickel Metal Hydride battery system whose typical data can be described in the following preliminary specification:
- Energy content: 1.0 kWh
- Voltage: 42 V
- Cell Capacity: appr. 25 Ah
- Weight: 30 kg max.
- Volume 30 l max.
- Maximum discharge power: 25 kW
- Maximum charge power: 25 kW (puls)
- Energy efficiency: > 80 %.
The technical goals are to be achieved by new concepts in material production as well as by improvements in cell, battery design and battery control units. The application of new production technologies is expected to considerably boost performance and to significantly reduce material and component prices. The presence of a car manufacturer in the consortium will allow for an intensive feedback over the whole project. Their needs will facilitate the benchmark for all development activities. The other consortium partners, a battery manufacturer, an alloy producer, a substrate manufacturer, a metallurgical specialist, a company specialised on processing and a separator manufacturer are representing the wide knowledge base which is necessary for achieving the demanding project goals.
Expected Results and Exploitation Plans:
There is no doubt, that the European economy is very much dependent on the prospering of its car industry. Especially, the worldwide exports are an important economical factor. For several years there have been intensive discussions about the problems with car traffic. The problems concern air pollution by harmful exhaust gases and the influence of CO2 emission on the atmosphere discussed under the term "Greenhouse Effect". Improving fuel economy is a general item. The advantages of a new car technology that is directed towards the reduction of air pollution and helps to improve fuel economy are obvious. An energy storage technology that contributes to achieving these goals is an important precondition for these concepts. Due to the expected growing need of energy storage devices for hybrid cars and other car applications there is the chance to increase European market shares. Since energy-storing systems for hybrid vehicles are sophisticated high tech products also other industries like the electronic industry will profit from the emerging new markets.

Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

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Funding Scheme

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CSC - Cost-sharing contracts

Coordinator

VARTA AUTOMOTIVE GMBH
EU contribution
No data
Address
Am Leineufer, 51
30419 HANNOVER
Germany

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Total cost

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Participants (7)

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