Mazda has agreed to partner with ELIIY Power and Ube Industries to jointly develop 12-volt lithium-ion starter batteries by 2021.

Lithium-ion batteries offer a promising alternative to conventional lead-acid car batteries, because of their lower weight, and because of environmental regulations in some regions that restrict the use of lead. However, their application as starter batteries has been limited due to the need to withstand the high temperatures of the engine compartment and the potential impact forces of a collision.

Mazda and its two partners aim to overcome such issues.

Mazda will conduct model-based research of the chemical reactions that occur inside batteries, and develop technologies to manage lithium-ion starter batteries.

ELIIY Power will leverage its experience in developing safe, waterproof, impact-resistant battery technologies to lead design and development of the basic battery unit.

Ube Industries will use its expertise in electrolytes and separators to develop an electrolyte with a higher flash point and better heat resistance.

Source: Mazda