Whether you’re looking to replace the battery in your car or upgrade to a new model, you should know that two different kinds of batteries are commonly used in today’s vehicles: AGM and EFB. Your choice depends on your car type, the price you can afford, and what you need.
AGM battery
Unlike traditional flooded car batteries, AGM batteries have low internal resistance and excellent charge acceptance. The latter is essential since it translates into faster power delivery. The battery also recovers quickly from low-charge conditions, extending the battery’s lifespan.
AGM batteries are helpful for starter applications, as well as for vehicles with start-stop systems. However, the AGM battery is not a replacement for the OPzV battery, the lead acid battery used in most vehicles.
EFB batteries, on the other hand, are considered the next generation of lead-acid batteries. They are more powerful and offer longer life. But they have a different performance than AGMs. They are more suitable for vehicles with simple start-stop systems, such as cars and trucks.
EFB batteries have significantly improved over conventional wet-cell batteries but only have some of the benefits of an AGM battery. For example, they have different power reserves.
EFB battery
Choosing the correct battery for your vehicle is essential. The type you choose will sense the performance and longevity of your vehicle. It is especially true if your vehicle has stop-start technology.
AGM batteries are ideal for larger vehicles with start-stop technology. They have several benefits, including lower fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. They also have a long lifespan and are compatible with battery management systems.
AGM batteries have been around for some time. They are used in both conventional and more environmentally friendly vehicles. They are also recommended for vehicles with stop-start technology. Using AGM batteries in a vehicle designed for stop-start technology improves the performance of the automated start-stop system.
Hybrid/electric assist vehicles
Typically, hybrid electric vehicles combine a gas engine with an electric motor. The electric motor helps to propel the vehicle at low speeds and provides extra power when the engine needs it. Hybrids also feature an energy management function that reduces fuel consumption. The battery can also supply power to consumers, as well as recapture energy that is lost during coasting.
Hybrid electric vehicles are divided into three types: mild, light, and plug-in. Typically, mild hybrids combine an electric motor with an engine start/stop system. These vehicles cost less than full hybrids, but they must be more powerful to propel the car on electric power alone. These vehicles also feature regenerative braking. This technology recaptures energy lost during coasting and uses it to turn the motor.
Light hybrids use a small electric motor but don’t have an all-electric mode. These vehicles have an automatic stop/start system that cuts out the engine when the vehicle needs to stop. This technology is available in many new vehicles.
Gasoline/micro hybrid vehicles
When you use a start stop batteryfunction, gasoline/micro hybrid vehicles shut off their gasoline engine when not in use. It allows the vehicle to run on electric power. The electricity is stored in an onboard battery.
GM has shown interest in start-stop technology. Ford planned to roll out micro hybrids in the U.S. in 2012. In Europe, several automakers have introduced micro hybrids. In Japan, automakers are also experimenting with micro hybrids.
Micro hybrids are considered more cost-effective and can help reduce tailpipe emissions. Some micro hybrids also include regenerative braking. A recent report from Lux Research projected micro-hybrid sales to grow to over 3 million vehicles worldwide this year.
Axon Power is developing a battery pack for micro hybrids. Pennsylvania-based A123 Systems is also targeting the micro-hybrid market. The company recently teamed up with a Chinese company to build micro-hybrid batteries for China.
Conclusion
According to various industry studies, stop-start systems can increase fuel efficiency by 5 to 10 per cent. Start-stop technology is available in full hybrids, mild hybrids, and non-hybrid combustion engine vehicles.
If your vehicle has stop-start technology, you must purchase a powerful battery to power all the electrical components onboard, even after your engine has been shut off. It is also cr to note that the battery must be durable enough to handle the many start-stop cycles your vehicle will go through.