Lithium-Ion Car Battery

For automotive applications, Valence Technology, Inc. has introduced a new lithium-ion car battery. The "U-Charge" system's patented "Saphion" Lithium-ion technology offers twice the amp capacity of an ordinary battery of the same size, and one third of the weight. It also charges faster and lasts up to four times longer than a lead-acid battery says the company. The battery can be used as a direct replacement for an ordinary car battery. Saphion technology utilizes a phosphate-based cathode material in place of metal-oxide materials that are typically used in Lithium-ion batteries. Saphion technology is chemically and thermally stable, making it safer than lead-acid batteries.

I. Reading Exercises:    

Exercise 1.    Read and memorize using a dictionary:

Exercise 2.  Answer the questions:

1) What for do batteries today contain a "gel" electrolyte?

2) What do premium batteries also use instead of flat plates?

3) What do the spiral-wound construction also offer?

4) How are Metal Hydride (NHM) batteries combined?

5) Why has a new lithium-ion car battery been introduced?

Exercise 3.  Match the left part with the right:

Exercise 4. Open brackets choosing the right words:

Some premium batteries also (use/make) a new type of "spiral-wound" cell construction instead of flat plates. This allows a (smaller/greater) surface area for higher power density. The six battery cells are (arranged/broken) like beverage cans in a six-pack. The result is a very compact, efficient design that delivers more cranking amps during the (final/initial) three to five seconds of cranking.