Status of improved lead-acid, nickel/iron, and nickel/zinc batteries being developed under DOE's electric vehicle battery program

The significant progress achieved in each of the three battery systems since the initiation of this battery development program is described. The 1982 demonstrated accomplishments are verified test results obtained on multicell modules (typically three to six cells each) at NBTL through May 1982. In particular, significant technical progress has been made in extending battery life. Additional progress in cell development and battery subsystem design (chargers, watering systems, electrolyte management systems) has allowed the construction of full-size battery packs. Globe Battery Division (lead-acid), Westinghouse (nickel/iron), and Eagle-Picher (nickel/iron) delivered full-size batteries to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) for in-vehicle testing and evaluation.