Components of a Hybrid Battery

A hybrid battery, also known as a traction battery, is a crucial component in hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). It stores and supplies electrical energy to power the electric motor(s) that propel the vehicle. The main components of a hybrid battery include:

1. Battery Cells:

• Chemistry: Hybrid batteries typically use lithium-ion (Li-ion) or nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) cells. The choice of chemistry depends on factors like energy density, weight, and cost.
• Individual Cells: The battery pack comprises numerous individual cells connected in series and parallel to achieve the desired voltage and capacity.

1. Battery Management System (BMS):

• Voltage Regulation: The BMS monitors and regulates the voltage of each battery cell to ensure they operate within a safe range.
• Temperature Control: BMS manages the temperature of the battery pack to prevent overheating or freezing, optimizing performance and longevity.
• State of Charge (SOC) Monitoring: BMS tracks the state of charge to provide accurate information about the remaining energy in the battery.

1. Cooling System:

• Thermal Management: Hybrid batteries often have a cooling system to dissipate heat generated during charging and discharging, which helps maintain optimal operating temperatures for the battery cells.

1. Voltage Converter (Inverter):

• DC-AC Conversion: In some hybrid systems, an inverter is used to convert the direct current (DC) from the battery into alternating current (AC) for the electric motor.

1. Voltage Reduction Device (Voltage Stabilizer):

• DC-DC Converter: This component converts the high-voltage DC power from the hybrid battery to the lower-voltage DC power needed to operate the vehicle’s auxiliary systems and charge the 12-volt battery.

1. Bus Bars and Connectors:

• Conductivity: Bus bars are conductive metal strips that connect the individual battery cells, allowing the flow of electrical energy within the battery pack.
• Connectors: Robust connectors link the battery pack to the vehicle’s electrical system.

1. Enclosure and Structural Components:

• Protective Casing: The battery pack is enclosed in a protective casing to shield it from external elements and to ensure the safety of the vehicle occupants.
• Structural Support: The battery pack often serves a structural role, contributing to the overall rigidity and safety of the vehicle.

1. Cell Balancing System:

• Equalization: In multi-cell battery packs, a balancing system ensures that individual cells maintain uniform charge levels, preventing overcharging or undercharging of specific cells.

1. Hybrid Battery Control Module:

• Centralized Control: This module manages the overall operation of the hybrid battery system, coordinating the activities of the BMS, inverter, and other components for optimal performance and efficiency.

These components work together to enable the hybrid battery to store, manage, and deliver electrical energy efficiently, contributing to the overall performance and fuel efficiency of the hybrid vehicle.