Navitas Systems has developed a family of deep cycle lithium-ion batteries specifically designed for industrial applications.
The US company announced the series of Starlifter™ batteries for Class I and Class II forklifts at the annual The Battery Show in Michigan, US.
The deep cycle lithium battery systems span multiple voltages from 36 to 80 volts, as well as a range of capacities from 10kWh to 30kWh.
Unlike hybrid vehicles, forklift applications run at a much lower voltage, so Navitas developed a high capacity/low voltage battery management system, which can be used with any existing charging systems.
The Starlifter’s “Active Balancing” feature shuttles the power between cells within the overall pack— thus allowing individual cells to operate at their optimum performance level regardless of weak cells.
Navitas also claims the Starlifter will charge to 100% in one hour with no negative ‘memory effects’, no need for watering, and no negative effects from being partially charged.
The Starlifter pack is currently being tested by three of the top five global forklift manufacturers.
