(Photo by Andy Armstrong on Flickr)
The recent agreement between LG Chem and STMicroelectronics to produce advance lithium-ion batteries demonstrates the technology needed for the next generation of vehicles. LG Chem is bringing its proven li-ion batteries to the table in combination with ST’s battery management chip to eliminate concerns about battery pack durability. ST has already used its vaunted BCD chip in printers, power windows and fax machines with positive results.
The BCD chip features digital logic capabilities, analog circuits and power transistors needed for comprehensive charge management. Digital logic allows the computation of miles traveled, battery capacity and other statistics picked up by the analog system’s precise measurements. ST’s power transistors control the flow of energy from the battery to a vehicle’s engine to avoid overheating and uneven power distribution.
LG Chem’s li-ion fuel cells will be unified with the help of the BCD “smart charge” technology. ST claims that the BCD chip is capable of handling 10 cells at once, reducing the number of cells that have to be integrated into a vehicle’s charging system. The BCD chip can communicate with companion chips in adjacent packs, improving energy consumption by keeping each cell in line with its mates.
This partnership is designed to reduce the cost of LG Chem’s lithium-ion battery and eliminate concerns about battery life. Once the BCD chip is incorporated into an LG Chem battery pack, vehicle makers can find reliable and cost-effective power sources for hybrid and all-electric prototypes. Another result of the LG Chem/ST alliance is a focus on the reliability and safety of li-ion auto batteries. If the BCD chip lives up to expectations, it will interface with charging stations and cut off electrical flow from traditional outlets. The typical LG Chem battery will last longer because of reduced strain during charging.
We should all be optimistic for this partnership as both sides have excellent corporate pedigrees. LG Chem is the largest chemical company in South Korea, brings in more than $9 billion in revenue worldwide and reaches consumers from the United States to Russia with its products. Geneva-based STMicroelectronics runs subsidiary groups throughout Europe that produce computer peripherals, car sound systems and wireless communications devices. Since both companies possess an intimate familiarity with global consumers, it makes sense that this collaboration will be operated on an accelerated timetable. We can only hope that automakers will continue progress on electric and hybrid prototypes that could use the LG Chem/ST battery to its fullest potential.
