An aging hybrid battery is undoubtedly something to worry about. The cost to replace is quite substantial. I know there are lesser-cost options out there. Still, if we are being honest, those solutions do not give you the maximum efficiency from a new good battery.
Project Lithium aims to give hybrid owners a better "second life" to their aging vehicles. The Lithium iron phosphate batteries that have been created are certainly catching the attention of their new owners, and rightfully so.
Nearly a decade of testing has gone into producing these battery packs, and now the product line is expanding. This means your hybrid could be on the list.
What Makes A LFP Battery So Good?
Modern technology gives us so many advantages. With 2.6 times the power available, the lithium battery can maintain peak voltage and "trick" the computer into using more electric power. The result is better fuel economy.
LFP is also much safer than traditional Li-Ion and does not expel NiMH's hazardous gasses. The best part is that it costs less than a new stock battery from your dealer.
What Cars Have Packs Available Now?
You can check out the website here to see for yourself. However, I would not be helping if I did not list what is currently available.
Toyota Camry Hybrid (06-17 years), Lexus GS450h (06-21) Lexus ES300 Hybrid, Lexus IS300h, Prius C, Gen 1 Prius, Gen 2, 3, 4, Lexus CT200h, Toyota Alpha Hybrid, and Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid.
There are packs of just about every Toyota hybrid on the market today.
Is It Easy To Install?
Every battery pack is a little different, but installation is a breeze if you have experience with high-voltage batteries. The packs come configured for 17 or 20 pack units, and the modules are basically plug-and-play.
Conclusion
I have a Project Lithium battery in my Prius and have loved the smooth, reliable power that comes from a good battery. I have had my battery for almost 2 years now, and it has been flawless. No issues, just a car that runs and drives better than when new.
I have confidence that Project Lithium will undoubtedly sell out of these pretty darn quick. The last few shipments were all sold before they were shipped.
If you are struggling to decide what to do with your battery, look at Project Lithium. A used hybrid still has a lot to offer and can give you many more years of excellent service.
That is all for today. Remember, today's adventures are tomorrow's stories.
Take a look at what Toyota is finally doing with a Chinese Battery Company BYD.
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Image source: Courtesy of Toyota Pressroom
Image source: Courtesy of Project Lithium
Peter Neilson is an automotive consultant specializing in electric cars and hybrid battery technologies. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Service Technology from Weber State University. Peter can be reached on Linkedin and you can tweet him at The_hybrid_guy on Twitter. Find his page on Facebook at Certified Auto Consulting. Read more of Peter's stories at Toyota news coverage on Torque News. Search Toyota Prius Torque News for more in depth Prius coverage from our reporter.