Article sponsored by Varta

Did you know, as well as Start-Stop and ICE vehicles, nearly all xEVs (BEV, PHEV, FCEV, Hybrids) require a 12 Volt power supply. As cars become more electrified and autonomous, the traditional 12 Volt lead-acid battery is taking on a new and challenging responsibility as a critical source of power across the evolving range of xEVs.

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 electric car’s high-voltage Li-Ion battery powers the drivetrain and the propulsion system, however not the whole vehicle, and not all of its electrical power devices. The internal electrical 12V power system with its comfort and critical safety features, is powered by a 12 Volt 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 drive train.

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 12 Volt power supply is in good working order.

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

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.

“It is safe to say that the unique benefits of lead-acid technology will be important to meet growing consumer expectations for safety, comfort, and connectivity”, says Dr. Christian Rosenkranz, Vice President Industry and Governmental Relations EMEA at Clarios, the parent company of the VARTA brand.

What makes VARTA AGM batteries the OEM’s Choice for xEV

VARTA Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries have proven their reliability for many years. It is their sturdy construction, behavior and inherent safety that makes them the perfect companion in supporting the 12 Volt electrical system of xEVs. The VARTA 12 Volt battery portfolio is engineered to support both today’s and future electric vehicles. 

Every major car manufacturer is entering the electric vehicle market with battery electric or hybrid electric vehicles. As the world’s leading battery manufacturer, Clarios is the number one supplier to all renowned Original Equipment Manufacturers with its VARTA brand. VARTA products are fulfilling all OE requirements. That is why well-known manufacturers such as Mercedes, Volkswagen and BMW are fitting their cars with VARTA batteries; in fact over 60% of new vehicles in Europe are being factory fitted with a VARTA.

Being the leading expert in battery solutions, Clarios has its VARTA Silver Dynamic AGM portfolio ready for xEV, now with added designation to the AGM labelling. Designed and tested together with leading car manufacturers, the VARTA AGM portfolio for xEV is here to prepare you for servicing the future of mobility.

VARTA support available for the UK & Irish Aftermarket

The VARTA team support garages and motor factors with a number of services, the newest of which are our suite of Battery E-Learning, which is now live in the VARTA Partner Portal, complementing the company’s 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:

1) Basic battery knowledge

2) Advanced passenger cars including modules on hybrids and EVs

3) Heavy commercial vehicles 

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: varta-partner-portal.com/ 

“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 technicians and factor staff find them useful and informative.” says John Rawlins, Marketing Manager UK & Ire. “Our intention is to provide bitesize online training in addition the face-to-face training we already deliver”.

To contact the team at VARTA, please message us at: varta-support@clarios.com