French battery manufacturer Saft has launched a lithium-ion battery designed as a drop-in replacement for lead-acid in military vehicles.
The 26V, 60Ah Xcelion 6T™ battery weighs 20.7kg and can be discharged from -40 to +60 degrees centigrade.
The battery passed a number of tests, including the UN’s transport certification, and has been issued a NATO stock number.
The launch came on the day it was announced the Lockheed Martin Team had selected the battery to power its joint light tactical vehicles (JLTVs).
The battery will provide JLTVs with starting, lights, ignition, and silent watch mission capabilities. It can also produce critical mobile power to recharge personal electronics such as night sights and GPS devices.
CANBus communications will relay the battery’s state-of-charge, state-of-health, cell voltages, temperatures and battery diagnostics.
