New member Hello

[Pfreen]

Welcome to the forum!
I have a lithium battery on my tcs and ac.  I am very happy with the lithium battery.
I think the original battery location is very warm because it is on the exhaust side.
Anyway, this is my battery and it weighs just over 3 pounds.  I used to have the Oddysey battery in the same location.

[Richard48Y]

Pfreen, you are far braver than I.
I would never have a Lithium battery anywhere near my S2, or any other car.

[Pfreen]

It's an aircraft battery, so I don't think fire is an issue.  Also, It is lithium iron, not the same as a Tesla battery, if that is what you are regerring to.

[Bainford]

Congrats on the Europa purchase, and welcome to the club. Your enablers are standing by. 

[Bainford]

It's an aircraft battery, so I don't think fire is an issue.  Also, It is lithium iron, not the same as a Tesla battery, if that is what you are regerring to.

I am curious as to that reference, as well. I've been seriously considering a lithium battery myself. Is there something I should know?

[BDA]

Pfreen, what size EarthX battery do you use? Are there any charging or maintenance things one would need to know?

[gideon]

I'm also interested in what size EarthX battery you chose and how it's working out. 

[Pfreen]

I have the Earthx etx680c.  They also sell the battery holder. 
It actually cranks the engine faster since the voltage is slightly higher and the internal resistance is lower than lead acid.
I have an 80 amp alternator because of my air conditioning.  I made no modifications to the charging system.
I have had it for just over two years.

[BDA]

I notice on EarthX's website that they recommend that the alternator should put out less than 60 amps. According to the video for that battery, there is overcharging protection but they warn that the battery is not at risk but the electronics that protect the battery from overcharging and undercharging. I guess since you've had it for a couple of years, you're safe.

[Pfreen]

I know.  I would follow their instructions, but I haven't had a problem.  However, if the battery was flat, that may be another case.
I have a 80 amp alternator to keep up with the demand at low rpm.

[jbcollier]

Overcharging lithiums is really, really bad.  You may have the sense not to cross the line but who knows about the next owner?  Then, of course, they will sue the battery company.  Same as it ever was.

[Richard48Y]

Yes fire would be my worry.
I've seen how EV batteries are made and it is no surprise they spontaneously combust.
Glad to hear this version has less worry but I will play it super safe.

[EuropaTC]

I've seen how EV batteries are made and it is no surprise they spontaneously combust.

At the risk of thread drifting, why is that ?  I've heard of fires in EVs but to be honest I've no idea what the risk is.
Brian

[Richard48Y]

Instead of one large large battery cell, or maybe a half dozen, they have hundreds or thousands.
And each individual cell has to be "Managed" when charging, or discharging, being shunted aside if failed, etc.
So many connections and an automotive environment are a recipe for failure.
The failures are spectacular and require special equipment to put out.

[EuropaTC]

Thanks, I've just realised how green (as in lack of knowledge, not tree hugging) I am in this area so I've just done some googling based on your comments.

Hmm, it does make you wonder, over in the UK EVs are being pushed hard and although I accept that petrol can explode/burn fires are generally rare and from what I can see are usually caused by electrical failures/ignition. So we might just be swapping one problem for another because there does seem to be an inherent risk involved.

I've no doubt it's safe now but in 10yrs time when the market is cut-throat for batteries you can imagine corners being cut and poor quality items on the market, a bit like some of the classic car replacements we have now.