Types of Car Batteries
The battery is the heart of your car. Without it, your engine won’t start and the rest of the car’s functions will be compromised.
Batteries are designed to store chemical energy and immediately convert it into electricity upon ignition. To do this, they deliver a short burst of electric current to the starter and other systems.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries have been one of the most important technologies of our time, providing power for everything from portable electronics to laptop computers, cellular phones and electric cars. They can hold three to four times more energy than other battery technology and are quickly rechargeable. Their safety, cycle durability (battery life), recharge time and cost are actively being improved by researchers.
The lithium batteries that power the majority of electric cars and plug-in hybrids are called lithium iron phosphate, or LiFePO4. They are a lot larger than those little power cells found in your new cell phone or tablet, and they’re made up of hundreds of individual battery cells fastened together in series to create the 12 volts your car requires. A battery management system or BMS monitors them and shuts off the power if it detects a fault.
Unlike lead-acid batteries, lithium batteries don’t leak acid and are less prone to damage from extreme temperatures or shocks. These batteries are also more environmentally friendly than other car batteries because they don’t contain any heavy metals, such as lead or mercury.
In the future, scientists hope to make lithium-ion batteries with a cathode made of organic materials instead of cobalt and nickel. These batteries would be cheaper and could have the same or even greater storage capacity than current lithium-ion technology.
Lead-Acid Batteries
The lead-acid battery is the most common type of car battery, delivering bulk power to start engines and run the lights, radios and other features in modern vehicles. It works by having a buy car battery positive and negative plate made from lead-based alloys that are immersed in an electrolyte solution consisting of one-third sulfuric acid and two-thirds water. When turned on, the spark plugs in a car’s engine turn the solution over and cause a chemical reaction that creates electricity and charges the battery.
Lead-acid batteries are known for their ability to be repeatedly discharged and recharged. This ability, called cycling, makes them an affordable option for providing electrical energy to vehicles. When a lead-acid battery has been completely discharged — for example, by leaving headlights on overnight — it can no longer produce a useful current and is considered dead.
Most modern battery types are flooded (they have removable caps and allow hydrogen and oxygen gas to escape during charging), but some are sealed and have pressure-activated relief valves. These are often referred to as VRLA, dry cell or non-spillable batteries. They require less maintenance and can be overcharged with less risk of damage than flooded batteries. They do, however, still self-discharge at a rate of about 1% per day and will lose their capacity to hold a charge over time if left unused — especially if it is hot outside.
Calcium Batteries
Calcium batteries are a unique alternative to traditional lead-acid options, catering to drivers who prioritize performance and longevity. They use the addition of calcium alloy to strengthen the battery against common issues faced by lead-acid counterparts, ensuring your power source will last longer and continue performing well.
A standard car battery uses lead as its anode, while the negative plate has a sulphate electrolyte to transfer ions back and forth across the plates during charging. However, adding a small amount of calcium to the positive and negative plates makes them stronger, increasing their durability and efficiency. Calcium also reduces water loss during charge, eliminating the need for regular topping up with distilled water. As a result, these batteries are maintenance free and offer exceptional cranking power, making them ideal for vehicles with ISS technologies.
As an alternative to lithium, calcium is a promising material for car batteries due to its abundance and low cost. While researchers have yet to unlock the full potential of this material, they are aiming for higher energy density with smaller sizes to enable better performance and storage capabilities. To achieve this, they need to develop an electrolyte that can work with the calcium metal. They also need to improve the battery’s lifespan and make it less sensitive to temperature extremes.
AGM Batteries
AGM batteries are a relatively new development in battery technology. They use fiberglass mats to automotive battery manufacturers wick the electrolyte between battery plates. This maximizes the surface area that contacts battery plates, so they can hold more power than a standard lead-acid battery. AGM batteries are also spill proof, which reduces their maintenance needs. They can be used in a variety of positions, whereas flooded lead acid batteries must be kept upright to avoid electrolyte leaks that could damage internal components and corrode metal parts.
AGMs provide up to twice the lifespan and energy output of a standard lead-acid car battery, even in demanding conditions. They are a great premium option for vehicles with large power demands, like start-stop and fuel-saving cars and trucks. They can also power electronic accessories, including advanced audio systems and heated seats.
Because AGM batteries are safer than flooded lead acid batteries, they can be stored in a variety of locations. This versatility, coupled with their lower maintenance requirements, helps drivers save time on vehicle maintenance. Additionally, AGM batteries rarely need electrolyte replenishment and can be safely used in areas where a flooded lead-acid battery would vent gas, such as the rear trunk or under the seat. However, it’s important to verify that your charging system can accommodate AGM batteries to ensure they get the full charge and longest lifespan possible.