Reliable and safe ultracapacitors for automotive engineering

Less weight, more power

The automotive sector is under increasing pressure to improve fuel efficiency and reduce its dependence on oil. This has led to a major trend towards electrification. However, the solutions enabling this shift must be able to meet stringent demands for high performance, reliability and safety.

The development of more efficient hybrid and electric vehicles is ready to take a big leap forward with the high power density, safety and lifespan that ultracapacitors offer.

Download whitepaper on ultracapacitor lifetime

Ultracapacitors can be connected in parallel with batteries to leverage benefits in both energy density and power density to create a more efficient, more robust overall system. Ultracapacitors are ideally suited to two of the fastest growing solutions in the automotive market: regenerative braking, i.e. KERS, and start/stop systems.

INFOGRAPHIC: Fuel Savings of up to 10% Possible with Start-Stop Systems

Regenerative braking

Regenerative braking allows a car to absorb kinetic energy during braking and release that energy during acceleration or hill climbing, reducing fuel consumption. This technique also takes most of the load off mechanical brakes, reducing brake maintenance and replacement expenses. In electric and hybrid vehicles, the power density of lithium-ion battery technology is often inadequate compared to the superior power output of ultracapacitors.

Start-stop

Start-stop applications enable the engine to shut down when it comes to a stop at a red light or when sitting in traffic. Ultracapacitors then provide a short burst of energy that restarts the motor. This technique delivers significant savings on fuel and reduces emissions. It is expected that start-stop systems will become the most cost effective way for automakers to pursue higher fuel efficiencies targets and that as many as half of new cars will be fitted with them by 2022.

Why Skeleton's ultracapacitors are ideal for this market

Electric and hybrid cars often struggle with high power demand for acceleration and hill climbing

Our ultracapacitors can efficiently absorb energy from braking and provide superior power output compared to any competing technology.

Battery life is a major concern for electric and hybrid car owners.

Ultracapacitors work well in parallel with batteries by leveling power load during charge and discharge. This reduces the strain on the battery and prolongs battery life.

Start-stop systems may require a car engine to be restarted dozens of times a day.

Unlike batteries, ultracapacitors can undergo millions of cycles without significant impact on performance, meaning ultracapacitors will be the last component in the system to require any maintenance.