ALLENTOWN, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--International Battery (www.internationalbattery.com), a U.S. manufacturer, designer, and developer of large-format Lithium ion rechargeable cells, announced it was given a $730,441 contract from the U.S. Army’s Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) to develop a hybrid energy storage solution for combat tanks and Stryker armored vehicles. This multi-year contract, if all development options are exercised, could total $6.7 million. The federal appropriations funding was secured by U.S. Representative Charles W. Dent through the Department of Defense (DoD).
This contract, which is the second TARDEC award for the company, is funding work for advanced level testing and delivery of energy storage system prototypes for Silent Watch, which requires battery systems that are ruggedized, have no heat signature, can withstand wide temperature variances and are lighter weight than lead-acid batteries.
In addition, International Battery will develop a hybrid battery system that will incorporate lithium iron phosphate cells (for energy) and ultracapacitors (for power).
International Battery’s new NATO 6T-compatible battery is a hybrid 12-volt system. The goal is to develop a battery that can deliver more power and energy to ultimately replace heavier lead-acid batteries as their reliability is greatly reduced in harsh environments, requiring frequent replacement. Lead-acid batteries can compromise mission effectiveness as they are sensitive to wide variances in temperatures – further accelerating degradation – creating supply and logistic issues resulting in a higher total cost of ownership (TCO).
“We are pleased with this latest award to continue our work in providing advanced energy storage solutions for TARDEC,” said International Battery’s CEO, Dr. Ake Almgren. “Our innovative lithium battery technology and our U.S.-based manufacturing capabilities will help enhance our country's security and provide increased operational readiness for our troops in the field."
This award continues advanced development of International Battery’s Non Primary Power System (NPS 1160) that is modeled on the company’s large-format iron phosphate cells and battery management system (BMS) technology developed and produced in the U.S.
“The complex and unique needs of our military often serve as the driving force behind the commercialization of advanced technology,” said U. S. Representative, Charlie Dent. ”International Battery’s work with the Department of Defense will not only improve the efficiency and safety of equipment used by our troops in the field, but will modernize energy use within our economy.”
International Battery's U.S.-based manufacturing facility offers several advantages in the rapid development of iron phosphate batteries including: a clean and environmentally safe setting through the use of its water-based manufacturing process. The company’s large-format prismatic cells enable superior system solutions – especially in terms of energy density and thermal management – without liquid or forced air cooling. This technology footprint is also applicable to applications for renewable energy integration and Smart Grid applications as well as for battery dominant electric and hybrid electric vehicles.
About International Battery
Headquartered in Allentown, Pa., International Battery (www.internationalbattery.com) is a U.S. manufacturer, designer, and developer of large-format Lithium ion rechargeable cells and batteries for use in a wide range of transportation, industrial, electric utility, smart grid and military applications, employing a uniquely environmentally friendly manufacturing process.
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