Case Studies - Energy & Environment

Our new lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are a powerful, high energy way to power small electric vehicles.

We've developed a new technique to power vehicles with lithium-ion batteries. These batteries offer a powerful, low-weight alternative to traditional commercial cells and are ideally suited to meet military and civil requirements, such as radio and small electric vehicles.

Working with industrial partners, we've developed three prototype batteries in the size range of 24V 3Ah, 24V 6Ah and 24V 10Ah. We then tested the lithium-ion batteries in an electrically powered bicycle and a mini-robotic vehicle.

The electric bicycle, the 'Otto' cycle, has an electric motor fixed to the rear wheel that reduces the mechanical effort of pedalling, particularly during hill climbing. We measured the current and voltage supplied by our lithium-ion battery while the bicycle was in motion. The result showed that the battery was capable of giving significant power for an extended duration and that with its weight of 2kg, it provides a similar power to the lead-acid battery which comes with the 'Otto' bicycle and weighs 3kg more.

The new battery has been constructed using flat pack packet cells - they are rectangular in shape and therefore 33% easier to pack in a battery box than the traditional cylindrical cells. This method of construction also means that weight is reduced and the overall energy density of the packet is higher.

At QinetiQ, we continue to research and test the capabilities of Lithium primary, secondary and reserve thermal batteries. As a technology, the lithium-ion battery readily lends itself to changes in scale of vehicles. It's a compact yet powerful alternative to other commercial batteries for vehicles.

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This project is a prime example of how we are currently applying our knowledge and expertise. We could do the same for you. Whatever your requirements or problems, we have the ideas, know how and solutions.