How VARTA AGM batteries are supporting xEVs

Did you know, as well as start/stop and ICE vehicles, nearly all xEVs (BEV, PHEV, FCEV, hybrids) require a 12V power supply? As cars become more electrified and autonomous, the 12V lead-acid battery is taking on a new, challenging responsibility as a critical source of power across the evolving range of xEVs, according to technical team member, Andy Cook.

There are an increasing number of electrified vehicles entering the market to support governmental targets of reducing CO2 emissions. Their emergence has intensified low-voltage power demands and is continually redefining the role of the 12V battery. Enhanced levels of vehicle electrification have driven the 12V battery to become a safety critical component, particularly if the high-voltage battery fails.

An EV’s high-voltage lithium-ion battery powers the drivetrain and the propulsion system, however not the whole vehicle, and not all its electrical power devices. The internal electrical 12V power system with its comfort and critical safety features, is powered by a 12V battery. It works as a secondary power source for the vehicle’s electrical system and ensures that the car maintains its functionality while driving but also whilst parked, and the high-voltage battery is disconnected from the drivetrain.

Comfort and safety features like lane assist, power steering and the brake booster are handled by onboard smart systems, which also draws power from the 12V system. The same goes for most of the car’s monitoring functions; it is, therefore, essential that a reliable 12V power supply is in good working order.

Why is lead-acid technology still being used in a modern EV?

Lithium-ion technology is often considered the successor of lead-acid technology when it comes to batteries. However, it is not as inherently robust as other battery technologies and requires continuous monitoring by the battery management system. Overall, it is a very sophisticated technology.

Lead-acid batteries, on the other hand, are known to be both reliable and affordable. Their wide operational temperature window intrinsically enhances the operational robustness of the entire system. The safety record of lead-acid batteries makes them invaluable for Europe’s future low-emission mobility sector, plus lifecycle analysis of a vehicle’s environmental impact show that lead-acid has a lower impact compared to other technologies.

What makes VARTA AGM the ‘chosen ones’?

VARTA Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries have proven their reliability for many years.

It is their sturdy construction, behaviour and inherent safety that makes them the perfect companion in supporting the 12V electrical system of xEVs. The VARTA 12V battery portfolio is engineered to support both today’s and tomorrow’s EVs.

Every VM is entering the EV market with battery electric or hybrid electric vehicles. Our products are fulfilling all OE requirements. That is why well-known manufacturers, such as Mercedes, VW and BMW, are fitting their cars with our batteries; in fact, more than 60% of new vehicles in Europe are being factory fitted with a VARTA.

Clarios, the parent company of the VARTA brand, has its VARTA Silver Dynamic AGM portfolio ready for xEVs, now with added designation to the AGM labelling. Designed and tested together with VMs, our AGM portfolio for xEV is here!

Support available for the UK and Irish aftermarket

Our team provide several services, the newest of which are our suite of battery e-learning, which are live in the VARTA Partner Portal. This complements our more traditional face-to-face-training. As well as access to the Battery Finder, fitting instructions and technical articles, registered Partner Portal users also get free access to a complete offering of digital training on basic battery knowledge, advanced passenger cars – including modules on hybrids and EVs – and CVs.

How does it work? Simply login and click the ‘menu’ in the top left of the screen, then you have free and unlimited access to the VARTA e-learning.

We are very pleased to be able to support the UK and Irish aftermarkets with these free-to-access e-learning courses, and hope that factor staff, in particular, find them useful and informative. Our intention is to provide bitesize online training, in addition to the face-to-face training we already deliver.