Modern vehicles with CO2 reduction technologies, high levels of specification, and new electronic driver aids may feature an auxiliary battery alongside the main vehicle starter battery or high voltage system battery on Hybrid and electric vehicles.
Auxiliary batteries vary in size and specification dependent on the demands placed on it by the vehicle electrical system and can be used as a safety back-up to support the main battery when required or to provide voltage for specific vehicle systems all of the time.
Auxiliary batteries from Yuasa, such as the Auxiliary, Backup & Specialist Batteries, provide enhanced cycling capability and power the vehicle’s on-board electrics and computer management system. They feature Original equipment (OE) quality, performance & specification, making them ideal for the unique requirements of vehicles with auxiliary battery systems.
Once the auxiliary battery is fully charged contact 2 will open to prevent damage to the axuiliary battery and reduce alternator and consequently engine loads to save fuel and reduce emissions. Most Hybrid vehicles such as the Toyota Prius feature a conventional 12 Volt auxiliary battery in addition to the high voltage hybrid system battery.
Having the right dual battery setup means you can stay off road for longer The latest and greatest of auxiliary batteries, lithium (LiFePO₄) is leading the charge when it comes to innovative battery features. At one third of the weight of other battery types, a 100Ah lithium battery starts at about 13kg.
The primary battery is being charged by the alternator and the secondary battery is isolated from the circuit. If the system detects a low auxiliary battery voltage contact 2 will remain closed once the engine is running to enable the auxiliary battery to be fully charged by the alternator.