We reported a while ago that the new Civic Hybrid would get lithium-ion batteries, and Honda has confirmed that the new Civic Hybrid will be getting lithium-ion batteries.
What does this mean for consumers?
The transitioning of nickel batteries to lithium will mean more MPG at a lower cost. This shift is part of Honda's plan to make its hybrids as affordable as its conventional gasoline vehicles.
Honda's Fit EV that was announced a couple of months ago also uses lithium-ion batteries. Blue Energy Co. Ltd, a joint venture between Honda and GS YUASA Corp will be providing these lithium batteries for Honda hybrids.
Honda plans to have 10% of its global sales to be hybrids by 2015.
Despite the fact that lithium ion batteries cost 30% more to make than nickel metal hydride batteries, manufacturers build smaller packs to save money. If Honda applies this method to the Honda Civic Hybrid, we'd see a couple of more MPGs being pushed out of the current rating of 40/43 highway/city respectively. Lithium ion batteries also mean lighter and more effective regenerative braking.
Another positive about going lithium ion is that Honda will put an end to the problems plaguing current Honda Civic Hybrids relating to critical battery failures. Not only have there been reported losses of power in the battery packs, there have been reports of outright battery failures. Honda's fixes have only worsened the problem by making the car less fuel efficient. The low sales of the Civic Hybrid makes it a good candidate to switch to lithium-ion to test how they will work in the real-world.
All manufacturers are slated to transition into lithium ion for their hybrids, Honda hasn't been the first, but they are playing along. It's just a matter of time before nickel metal batteries become history.