Lithium-ion may hog the spotlight when it comes to powertrain electrification, but the role of the lead-acid battery has been somewhat overlooked. In a hybrid vehicle, that diminutive battery enables the frequent stop-start process that helps minimise tailpipe emissions. In a full battery electric vehicle (BEV), it facilitates the operation of vital power electronics for comfort, safety and entertainment features. In fact, it can be found in virtually all road-going vehicles, and accounts for more than 70% of the world’s rechargeable battery energy storage, including vehicles and stationary back-up systems.
Freddie Holmes speaks to the Consortium for Battery Innovation, a dedicated research institute looking to find new breakthroughs in lead-acid battery technology
