Lotus Elan and Lotus Elan Plus 2 Forums

Anyone on here got experience on changing lead acid batteries for lithium ones?

EMA7K

I've been using a Shorai lfx36 for a couple years and am happy with it so far (can crank at least 2-3 min cold, easy to handle and provide strong current and voltage) - I have it charged by a ACR 17 Lucas alternator.

Given the expense and the fact that they are knackered by a complete discharge I've gone with a lead gel Odyssey 680. Still half the weight saving of the original.

EMA7K wrote:Anyone on here got experience on changing lead acid batteries for lithium ones?

EMA7K

Yes, I've done it. When your starter is not good,
the Battery will destroy him. 6 month without charch is no problem.
5-jears warranty!

I think you need to consider the differences between Lithium Ion Cobalt and Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries. They use different chemistries, but sound similar in name. Lithium Ion batteries use Cobalt in their construction and that has significant environmental problems, as well as the potential to cause the battery to catch fire - ask Samsung. Lithium Iron uses a different, less polluting chemistry - it uses Iron phosphate instead of Cobalt. The two batteries mentioned in this thread are examples of these two types. I know which I would fit, if I could afford it.... There is a reason that LFP - Lithium Ferro Phosphate batteries are gaining popularity - less polluting, cheaper raw materials, faster charge rates, negligible static discharge rates and very stable chemistry. Which would make a good Electric Vehicle battery? A technology to watch.

Jeremy

PS, just be careful with some of these high power batteries. Because they are small, some folk think they are not dangerous and take less care over insulating the terminals. One of our forum members nearly lost his Elan when the exposed terminals of one of these batteries earthed in spectacular fashion, close to the fuel tank...

Many thanks. My lead acid is dying -lack of use of car. Must use it more!

EMA7K