Valence Technology introduces new high-power Li-ion battery modules
01 May 2013
Valence Technology recently announced the availability of the U-Charge P40-24, the first in a new generation of high-power battery modules utilizing the company’s lithium iron magnesium phosphate chemistry. The 1.024 kWh (25.6 V, 40 Ah) module is capable of 10-second discharge pulses of up to 700A (17C) and continuous discharge currents of 240A (6C). Along with providing high power discharge capabilities, the P40 can also be recharged from a 0% state of charge (SOC) to 90% SOC in less than an hour.
The new module is a complementary product offering to the existing U-Charge product line, which has been available since 2005. The P40-24 enables Valence to offer a “right-sized” battery pack for applications that require high discharge currents for short durations of time, as often seen in stationary requirements such as uninterruptible power systems (UPS) for data centers. The P40-24 offers numerous advantages over lead-acid battery powered UPS systems, such as a smaller footprint, longer life and higher operating temperature capabilities, the company says.
Along with UPS systems, the P40-24 is suitable for any application that requires a reliable, high-power, long-life energy storage system such as hybrid-electric vehicles (HEV) and utility scale grid storage.
At the core of the P40-24 is Valence’s lithium iron magnesium phosphate (LiFeMgPO4) cathode material, which has been deployed in more than 250,000 modules since Valence first commercialized the technology in 2005.
The module was designed to leverage the capabilities of our patented cathode material. The new P40-24 broadens and extends the application scope of our standard product line, offering advanced performance for applications demanding higher-power.
—Paul Krueger, Senior Director of Engineering
The U-Charge P40-24 stays true to Valence Technology’s strategy of offering advanced lithium battery technology in off-the-shelf available modules. The modules are configured and controlled by Valence’s own in-house developed battery management system (BMS). The BMS makes it easy to connect and configure the modules in parallel and/or series to meet the power needs of almost any application. Valence says that its modular approach helps customers quickly design, prototype, test and introduce products to the market without the high NRE (non-recoverable engineering) costs or the risks associated with using a custom battery or unproven BMS.
The P40-24 is now available for high-volume purchases.
Very interesting modular approach.
Using variable numbers of 'plug-in' battery modules could lower the initial price of most electrified vehicles and better match buyers pocketbook and requirements.
The savings in operation and fuel cost could be used to add more modules (if required) at a latter date.
Posted by: HarveyD | 01 May 2013 at 06:56 AM
So, quick & dirty, 24 of these could power a Leaf..cost?
Posted by: kelly | 01 May 2013 at 10:28 AM
Ideally, EV owners should be able to add and/or change the 'plug-in' battery modules to extend e-range and to take advantage of new lower cost improved battery technologies.
Older, lower performance used batteries could be used for the home solar energy system or sold on the secondary market?
Posted by: HarveyD | 02 May 2013 at 08:06 AM