Bosch is introducing an innovative, safe and resource-conserving solution for replacing high-voltage battery modules in Toyota and Lexus EV and hybrid models. It allows for easy replacement of outworn nickel-metal hydride battery modules without vehicle-specific tools.
The product will be launched in Germany starting in the fall of this year, followed by select European markets next year. Bosch will initially be offering its battery repair set for the Toyota Prius III, Toyota Yaris, and Lexus CT 200h models. Toyota Auris will also join the list by the fall of 2024, the company said.
The performance of high-voltage batteries in electric and hybrid vehicles decreases as their modules wear out or become faulty over the course of time. Usually, once the traction battery's storage capacity has become too low, the complete battery system is replaced, which is a costly affair.
Although replacing the faulty or outworn individual modules is possible and less expensive, there is always the risk of the battery system breaking down again. Here is where Bosch's latest battery repair kit becomes relevant. It allows for the replacement of select nickel-metal hydride modules in the car's traction battery, while retaining rest of the components of the battery system.
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The repair process starts by removing the high-voltage battery system from the vehicle. Once the module carrier plate and other components are removed, the old modules can be replaced with the new nickel-metal hydride modules from the repair set. The battery is then reassembled and re-installed in the vehicle.
Bosch claims that by including the repair of high-voltage batteries in their portfolio, independent workshops and technicians can add another string to their bow in the important electromobility market. However, the repair set for high-voltage batteries can only be installed by workshop associates who have completed level 3 high-voltage training.
The battery repair set comes with a five year warranty. There is no need for a special inspection following the battery repair, as the repair set has passed all the tests set by the vehicle registration authorities and been granted a general operating license by the Federal Motor Transport Authority, according to the manufacturer.