GS Yuasa's advanced battery technologies: empowering modern vehicles for a greener future

18 November 2024

GS Yuasa's advanced battery technologies: empowering modern vehicles for a greener future

At GS Yuasa, we're committed to driving innovation in battery technology, offering advanced solutions for the automotive industry's shift towards sustainability and fuel economy. Our cutting-edge battery technologies, including Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) and Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) are designed for the latest emission control systems, setting new standards in performance and reliability. 

 

The need for innovation 

EU legislation within the automotive industry sets ambitious targets for CO2 emissions reductions. GS Yuasa's battery technologies are pivotal in enabling vehicles to meet these standards, supporting eco-friendly innovations like Start - Stop systems, charge management, and regenerative braking. 

Start - Stop systems: these systems automatically turn off the engine when the vehicle is stationary and restart it upon movement, significantly increasing the battery's engine start requirements from a few times to dozens of times a day. 

Charge management: to improve fuel economy, our batteries support systems that control the charging process, adapting to the vehicle's electrical needs without full charging. 

Regenerative braking: these systems harvest the kinetic energy produced during braking and convert it into electrical energy for storage and use, thus enhancing efficiency and reducing waste. 

Group of Yuasa, GS, and GS Yuasa automotive batteries in a workshop settingGroup of Yuasa, GS, and GS Yuasa automotive batteries in a workshop setting

Introduction to advanced battery technologies 

AGM and EFB batteries: a leap forward 

GS and Yuasa Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) and Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) types are designed to meet the high demands of modern vehicles. These batteries are essential for vehicles equipped with Start - Stop systems, offering significantly higher start cycles and durability. 

It's vital to replace your vehicle's battery with the same technology (AGM or EFB) originally installed to maintain emission control systems' functionality and avoid premature battery failure. Incorrect battery replacement can lead to loss of Start - Stop functionality, causing a risk in CO2 emissions, and reduced fuel economy. 

Many vehicles fitted with an AGM or EFB battery will require battery validation using an OBD configuration tool after a replacement. See below for more details. 

AGM batteries

Known for their exceptional Start - Stop performance, our GS and Yuasa AGM batteries provide up to 360,000 starts, with superior charge acceptance and durability. 

  • Construction: AGM batteries feature absorbent glass mat that absorbs and contains all the electrolyte, preventing leaks. 
  • Benefits: superior Start - Stop performance, high dynamic charge acceptance, and exceptional durability. 
  • Applications: ideal for high-end vehicles with extensive electronic systems and regenerative braking capabilities. 

EFB batteries

With up to 270,000 starts, our GS and Yuasa EFB batteries offer an excellent solution for entry-level Start - Stop vehicles, combining cost-effectiveness with performance. 

  • Construction: EFB batteries enhance the traditional flooded design by utilising carbon and lithium additives in the negative plate and high-density active material in the positive plate to improve durability and performance. 
  • Benefits: enhanced charge acceptance and greater cyclic durability. 
  • Applications: perfect for entry-level Start - Stop vehicles and the recommended choice for standard ignition vehicles that make lots of regular short journeys such as taxis & delivery vehicles. 

Battery validation 

As vehicle technology advances, battery validation has become an essential part of the replacement process. Systems such as Start-Stop, charge management, and regenerative braking place increased demands on the battery, meaning that vehicles require the correct technology – typically AGM or EFB – to operate effectively.

Most modern vehicles are also fitted with a Battery Management System (BMS). When replacing the battery, this system must be reset to recognise the new unit. If not correctly validated, the vehicle may suffer from premature battery failure or a complete loss of key functions such as Start-Stop, regenerative braking, or even energy-saving charge management.

To make this process simple and reliable, GS Yuasa developed the Yu-Fit+ configuration tool. In as little as 60 seconds, workshops can carry out battery validation and reset the BMS, ensuring all advanced vehicle systems continue to perform as intended. The Yu-Fit+ is also capable of working with the latest secure vehicle systems, including Vehicle Secure Access (VSA) and Schutz Fahrzeug Diagnose (SFD), giving technicians a quick and future-proof solution.

 

Maintenance & charging 

Both EFB and AGM battery types are designed to be maintenance free, although, as with all batteries periodic charging may be required during times of storage or reduced usage. For AGM batteries it is crucial to use a smart charger compatible with AGM technology to prevent damage and maintain battery health. EFB types can usually be charged on a smart charger’s ‘wet’ battery setting. 

Hybrid & electric vehicle battery solutions 

GS Yuasa's portfolio extends beyond AGM and EFB to include advanced battery solutions for hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs), employing state-of-the-art lithium-ion technology. These batteries are designed for the high voltage and energy requirements of EVs, offering longevity and efficiency critical for sustainable transportation. 

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