Pune based Kinetic Green
Energy and Power Solutions Limited (KGEPSL), a leading player in green mobility
and a venture of the Firodia group has launched its first electric
three-wheeler Kinetic Safar with the advanced lithium ion battery.
The vehicle with this new
battery is currently under homologation and will be launched on pilot basis
within 30 days. Company will provide the entire kit including Battery, BMS
(battery management system) and charger to its customers. Cost of the Lithium ion battery solution will
be higher than cost of the Lead acid version by approximately Rs. 55,000 to Rs.
60,000.
Currently most of
manufacturers of electric three wheelers such as e rickshaws are using lead
acid battery, which has issues of short life duration, long charging time of 10
hours, and excess weight. Lead acid batteries typically have to be replaced
every year and weigh approximately 120 Kg for an e rickshaw application.
Kinetic Green, India’s largest
manufacturers of Government approved electric three-wheeler vehicles, along
with its energy partners have successfully developed and tested lithium ion
batteries for application in their e-vehicles.
Use of lithium ion batteries
will have many benefits including:
• High Energy Density leading
to low weight thereby operates for more kilometers between charges. For example
48 V-80 Ah lead acid battery weights 120 Kg, same capacity Li Ion Battery
weighs only 35 Kgs.
• Fast Charging due to high
charge acceptance. Lead acid charging time is 8-10 hours or more, but same
capacity Li -Ion can be charged in only 1.5-3 hours.
• Long life unlike lead acid where life is
typically 360 cycles, Li Ion cells have life of 1500 cycles (NMC) & 3000
Cycles (LeFePo4) i.e., a life up to 5 years.
• Low self-discharge if the
vehicle is not used for some time its charge status remain same.
• Low maintenance Li Ion Cell
unlike lead acid or Ni cad do not require maintenance to ensure their
performance.