What Needs to Be Replaced When Switching from Lead-Acid to Lithium Batteries?
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When switching from lead-acid to lithium batteries, the charger and equipment matching parameters need to be replaced. Below are the differences between lead-acid and lithium batteries: Nominal Voltage: The nominal voltage of a single lead-acid battery cell is 2.0V; the nominal voltage of a single lithium battery cell is 3.6V. Internal Materials: The positive and negative electrodes of lead-acid batteries are lead oxide, metallic lead, and concentrated sulfuric acid electrolyte; the positive and negative electrodes of lithium batteries are lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, lithium manganese oxide, graphite, and organic electrolyte. Energy: Lead-acid batteries have 30WH/KG; lithium batteries have 150WH/KG. Electrical Characteristics: Lead-acid batteries cannot discharge at high currents and have a short lifespan; lithium batteries can discharge at high currents and have a long lifespan.
I previously converted my lead-acid battery to a lithium battery myself, and the whole process felt quite thrilling. First, I had to replace the old battery with a suitable lithium battery, such as a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) type, ensuring the size and voltage matched the original vehicle. Then, I had to install a Battery Management System (BMS), which monitors temperature and voltage to prevent overcharging and over-discharging, as lithium batteries are prone to catching fire otherwise. The charging system also needed an upgrade—the original vehicle alternator might output too high a voltage, requiring a voltage regulator or a compatible charger. Additionally, I had to check the wiring connectors; lithium batteries are much lighter, but the connectors might not match, so I used adapters to reinforce them. Finally, don’t forget safety—install a fuse to protect the circuit. After the conversion, the car starts faster, is lighter, and has a longer range, but beginners should ideally get a friend to help to avoid messing up the electrical system.