Glendale-based Johnson Controls Inc. is introducing several new innovations today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, including a battery system that powers Advanced Start-Stop vehicles and seating solutions that enhance safety, comfort and storage.
Called the Lithium Titanate battery, the battery system is a collaboration between Johnson Controls and Toshiba, the established market leader for Lithium Titanate. Production is scheduled to begin in 2018.
According to Johnson Controls, the Lithium Titanate chemistry is effective at quickly recharging, works well in a wide range of temperatures and can be easily integrated into a vehicle’s 12-volt electrical system.
Additionally, the Advanced Start-Stop system allows drivers to save up to 8 percent every time they fill up their gas tank as the batteries enable the engine to shut off more frequently and for longer periods of time.
“Johnson Controls is pursuing opportunities to develop evolutionary low-voltage energy storage systems that will help our customers meet increasing fuel regulations at a lower cost than a hybrid or electric vehicle,” said Lisa Bahash, group vice president and general manager of original equipment for Johnson Controls Power Solutions, the world’s largest manufacturer of automotive batteries. “In partnership with Toshiba, we are expanding our Lithium-ion product offerings to support the needs of our global customers.”
The 12-volt Lithium Titanate battery primarily accepts and stores regenerative braking energy during vehicle deceleration, enabling greater power and load management capabilities. In addition to that, an Advanced Start-Stop system has another battery: a 12-volt Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) or Enhanced Flooded Battery, which starts the engine and supplies power to accessories such as lights, navigation systems and radios.
Johnson Control’s AGM battery technology is also used to power the all-new 2015 Ford F-150, part of the Ford F-Series and Ford Motor Company’s first truck with Auto Start-Stop.
Over the next five years, Start-Stop vehicles with Johnson Controls AGM batteries are expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 14.8 million tons and save more than 1.6 billion gallons of fuel.
Johnson Controls estimates the global Start-Stop market for new vehicles could reach 38 million annually by 2020.
Also at the North American International Auto Show, Johnson Controls is unveiling two innovative seating solutions: the all-new Loft seat, a second-row seating solution for mid-sized luxury vehicles, that aims to increase vehicle storage, comfort, safety and efficiency, as well as the SD15 seating vehicle concept that addresses urban mobility, comfort and autonomous driving trends.
Finally, Johnson Controls will reveal its Innovation Demonstrator “ID15” concept featuring more than 30 technologies and innovations, including a rotating table, a glove box sliding tray and smart surface technologies.
