Plastic lithium ion energy/power systems are key to integrated and affordable hybrid automotive solutions

Abstract

If Hybrid Electric Vehicles are going to be successful, practical energy/power solutions must be implemented. One major cost driver on any hybrid application is the energy storage system, and the greater the power or energy storage requirements, the greater the cost. In addition, the energy storage system can be a major integration challenge as it often consumes highly valued vehicle space. The packaging, maintenance, safety and mass issues of the energy storage system must also be considered, as they all impact vehicle integration requirements. With the advent of Plastic Lithium Ion (PLI) technology, energy storage systems can be minimized, thus reducing the impact of cost, mass and volume to the hybrid vehicle platform. In addition, PLI technology provides packaging flexibility for optimum vehicle integration. By leveraging creativity, plastics engineering, and systems integration, PLI technology holds the key to practical and affordable Hybrid Electric Vehicles.