Williams Formula One racing team engineers have developed Adaptive Multi-Chem technology for battery modules used in electric vehicles.
The solution relies on two different kinds of cell chemistry arranged in two separate blocks within the module. The version shown at EV trade shows recently used Samsung’s 21700 30T cylindrical lithium ion cells and high-performance lithium ion pouch cells from A123 Systems.
Each Adaptive Multi-Chem module has an integrated DC-DC converter to control energy transfer between the two types of cells.
According to various reports including Electronic Design, Williams has shown a 37% increase in energy density, with total stored energy of 60 kWh, with a battery weight of 757 pounds. Peak deployment power is 550 kW (in a 20 second pulse) and peak regeneration power is 550 kW (in a 10 second pulse).
Williams Advanced Engineering was the sole battery supplier in FIA Formula E (electric car racing). The group has also developed lightweight composite materials.
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