Powering up the new stop-start systems

As stop-start systems gain acceptance in North America, a range of technologies including lithium ion batteries, ultracapacitors, and 48-V “mild hybrid” systems are under consideration to handle the aggressive start cycles, typically more than 20 per day, that are required of these systems. Stop-start is aimed at reducing vehicle fuel consumption and emissions by reducing engine idling.

Even the venerable lead acid battery is evolving. Enhanced flooded batteries and absorbent glass mat (AGM) technologies with deep-cycling capability are slowly displacing batteries used for several decades. While the rapid expansion of electronics overall is a factor, a key reason is the rise of stop-start applications, which require quick recharging and long lifetimes.