Modern Batteries 50% Lighter and 40% More Powerful

FordFordUnited States of America, 1903 > present92 models
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considers the current crop of batteries in hybrids and electric cars the third generation of batteries; the batteries in hybrids and EVs from about 2004 are considered the first generation. In the eight years separating these three generations, batteries have become 50% lighter and have a 40% better volume-to-power ratio. 

It is fantastic to be lighter and more efficient, but it means nothing if the batteries are also not reliable. Ford has developed a testing procedure to put its batteries under the equivalent of 10 years and 150,000 miles of wear in 10 months. 

The test allows engineers to simulate the effect of moving the batter pack around the vehicle, adjust temperatures, acceleration and traffic. The tests put the batteries under 140° temperatures to simulate the hottest temperatures in the US and then switch to -40° to simulate the coldest temperatures. 

“Recent studies show consumers are keeping their vehicles longer, and regulations in some regions now require batteries to carry warranties for greater distances. Fortunately, our tests take into account distances and conditions that go way beyond those normal requirements," said Dan Layden, head of Ford's electric vehicle programs.

Ford has 1,000 engineers dedicated to working on electrification and have invested $135 million to create its latest range of hybrid cars.