How to choose a lithium-ion vehicle battery manufacturer

Looking for lithium-ion batteries for light-duty vehicles but not sure which one to choose? You may already know that you want to jump into this rechargeable energy technology because of its various advantages. But how do you choose between the different solutions on the market? This can be a big challenge, so we are going to give you some key criteria for choosing the right manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for light commercial vehicles.

Fortunately, with the right information and a careful assessment of your needs and budget, you can make an informed decision that meets your energy requirements and allows you to take full advantage of this emerging technology. 

Keys to choosing a lithium battery manufacturer for light commercial vehicles

1. Technology

Make sure the manufacturer uses state-of-the-art technology to produce more efficient and longer-lasting batteries. In this respect, the NCPOWER System together with the battery management system (BMS) and telemetry provides maximum performance with minimum effort.

Lithium-ion battery technology is more than just a power source for your equipment; it is above all a useful tool to help maximise performance, long battery life allowing for fewer and/or longer recharges, as well as the freedom to move without maintenance in the short, medium and long term.

Manufacturers of lithium-ion battery packs should have a BMS with a telematics offering where users can access the most important data on the performance of the battery pack. 

A cloud-based solution allows users to identify usage patterns, track battery behaviour, usage, etc. monitor battery status and send customised alerts and notifications. 

In addition, these systems allow the battery manufacturer's support teams to troubleshoot and diagnose problems remotely and to anticipate any future eventualities that may occur.

As telematics technology becomes more affordable, it is becoming an indispensable tool for fleet managers to optimise productivity and maximise equipment uptime. 

NPCOWER's latest technology, based on its unique and patented system, the NCPOWER System offers you clearly differentiating advantages over what is already on the market, a technology that will enable you to drive more efficient, safer and more profitable vehicles.

2. Experience

Another crucial factor is the track record of the manufacturing company. Check if they have a long history in the battery market, as they are more likely to be able to understand the technology and your needs as a customer. This means they can provide customised solutions tailored to specific customer needs. 

Please note that in general the lithium battery manufacturers have a competitive advantage in terms of innovation. This is often because they have had time to research and develop new technologies and product improvements.

In addition, a well-established manufacturer usually has a more professional and competent customer service. This way, if there is a problem with the battery, the company can help solve the problem and provide adequate warranties.

Discover all of NCPOWER's expertise in the manufacture of LifePo4 lithium batteries for electric light commercial vehicles at ncpower.co.uk

The innovative features (patents) and certifications independent third party safety and innovation assessments are proof of NCPOWER's commitment and continuous improvement in the market.

Lithium-ion battery manufacturers are driving many changes in the material handling industry, so whichever manufacturer you choose, you must be motivated to continue to drive change and improve your battery technology.

As technology becomes increasingly advanced, your battery manufacturer must take on a more strategic role, partnering with your business, establishing mutually beneficial synergies. For NCPOWER it is a far cry from companies simply making a one-off sale. In our corporate handbook you can discover how NCPOWER forges long term and lasting relationships with its customers or rather "strategic partners".

3. Production capacity

It is essential that the manufacturer has the ability to produce batteries in large quantities and on a consistent basis. This is key to being able to meet delivery schedules and have sufficient inventories to meet the needs of each customer.

4. Cost of lithium-ion batteries

It will probably be clear to you that if you can get the different features at the best price, this will be your manufacturer of choice. Evaluate a few factors to see if a battery is economical and appropriately priced. 

• Battery capacity, and whether it has good battery life and the best performance.
• Longer lifetime would be more economical in the long run.
• Advanced and higher quality technology, which would justify a higher cost.
• Warranty and after-sales support, which could increase its value.
• Total cost of ownership, including the lithium battery itself, plus charging, maintenance and replacement.

In short, don't just consider the cost of the lithium-ion battery itself. Also consider the costs of installation, maintenance and battery replacement.

5. Compatibility with commercial vehicles

It is also important to ensure that the technology used is compatible with the electrical system of your light commercial vehicle. The manufacturer should be able to provide detailed information on the technical specifications of the battery and ensure compatibility.

One of the great advantages offered by NCPOWER is that the integration of our lithium batteries in commercial vehicles is done in an exclusive and customised way. In other words, we study the needs of our customers and manufacture the battery packs for their fleet of vehicles. In this way, we ensure a 100% of technical, commercial and warranty compatibility.

6. Continuous technical support

Last but not least, check that the manufacturer has a team of experts available to answer any questions or concerns you may have about lithium-ion batteries. Also, be sure to check for warranties and reliable after-sales service.

In the case of NCPOWER, not only do you have an excellent and personalised service. In addition, the company offers BMS (Battery Management System), a battery management system that allows you to keep track of battery performance and efficiency.

The BMS monitors the status of the battery, including:

• The temperature
• Voltage
• The current

The objective of the bms is to ensure that the above limits remain within safe operating limits. 

It also helps prevent overcharging, over-discharging, short-circuiting and other problems that could damage the battery or even cause a fire. Learn how to the BMS used by NCPOWER differs from others on the market..

The BMS, together with the monitoring of the battery's condition and performance, ensures long-term and durable performance of the vehicle's battery.

7. Commitment to sustainability

As more batteries are used in the materials handling industry, more batteries will need to be recycled.

Lead acid batteries have a robust disposal and recycling process. Because lithium-ion batteries are a relatively new technology, a widespread recycling programme has not yet been developed for them. However, recycling is still possible and important.

All batteries have a finite life and it is essential to think about what to do with the battery at the end of its life. Select a manufacturer that already has a programme battery disposal and recycling makes it easier.

Any reputable battery manufacturer must accept its end-of-life batteries for recycling or reuse. NCPOWER is currently in the process of negotiating with the main recyclers of lithium batteries in a way that ensures a proper battery recycling system.

Battery manufacturers should reuse batteries for secondary use or work with organisations to develop second life programmes. Sending your battery to the manufacturer for secondary use recycling provides benefits such as:

• Avoiding disposal costs at recycling centres
• No waste treatment costs to worry about
• Minimise the amount of batteries that unnecessarily end up in landfills

Beyond the improved energy efficiency of the leap to lithium-ion batteries, the big challenge is to reduce pollution during the production process. Opt for a company like NCPOWER developing the product in a sustainable wayThe aim is to minimise the environmental impact.

Advantages of lithium batteries

Overall, lithium-ion batteries offer a number of significant advantages over lead-acid batteries, making them the preferred choice for a wide variety of applications, including use in light commercial vehicles.

• Higher energy density, so they can store more in a smaller size and weight.
• Longer service life, so they don't need to be replaced as often.
• Increased energy efficiency and reduced losses.
• Lower weight, making them ideal for use in mobile applications such as vehicles.
• Faster charging, so you can use the equipment with fewer interruptions.
• No memory effect, so they do not lose their charge capacity over time as lead-acid batteries do.
• Lower maintenance, thus more economical in the long run.
• Increased safety, as they do not contain corrosive sulphuric acid or other hazardous materials.

Discover NCPOWER, lithium batteries for commercial vehicles

At NCPOWER you will find a complete solution for your lithium-ion battery needs for light commercial vehicles. 

Our advanced technology, market experience, production capacity and competitive costs make us the right choice for your battery needs. 

In addition, our batteries are compatible with a wide range of light commercial vehicles and we offer excellent technical support, treating each customer individually. 

–

At NCPOWER we can be your strategic partner in your leap towards a more economical, efficient and cost-effective energy system. Do not hesitate to contact us and we will provide you with detailed information about our batteries, the technology used, our patented NCPOWER SYSTEM, our monitoring system and BMS. Join the NCPOWER experiences through our contact form or contact us.