Clarios to develop 24-V lithium-ion batteries for heavy-duty applications

Clarios, a well-known manufacturer of low-voltage, AGM Lead-acid battery solutions, has announced an agreement to develop 24-volt lithium-ion batteries for heavy-duty applications with a leading European commercial truck manufacturer. The company is also showcasing its latest trucking battery at the on-going IAA 2024. 

With close to 20 years of experience in developing lithium-ion cells and expertise in chemistry, cell design, and safety testing, Clarios is bullish about the new order for developing robust batteries for electric trucks. 

"Battery failure can account for as much as 20 percent of a truck's downtime," said Federico Morales Zimmermann, vice president and GM, Global Customers, Products and Engineering at Clarios. 

"Our new 24-volt Lithium-Ion battery for heavy-duty fleets not only addresses this challenge by reducing downtime but also introduces advanced energy management capabilities that optimize the overall efficiency of fleet operations", he added. 

By integrating smart diagnostics and predictive maintenance features, Clarios claims that its batteries allow operators to anticipate and prevent failures before they occur, resulting in significant savings on emergency repairs and premature replacements.

The new battery packs will be marketed through its subsidiary VARTA Automotive in European markets. "We are planning to market this development in EMEA under VARTA Automotive, Europe's leading brand for low-voltage batteries, further solidifying our position as innovators in fleet electrification and power management solutions", Zimmermann noted.

In line with its commitment to move beyond AGM battery offerings, Clarios considers lithium-ion as the right fit. The company is also exploring future technologies, including Sodium-Ion and other chemistries.

This approach allows Clarios to remain adaptable and responsive to the evolving needs of the heavy-duty market, without being confined to a single technology, according to the Wisconsin-based company.