Our Team at TRU Off Grid receives many questions such as:
Why Lithium Batteries are so expensive, are they safe, stable and are they really better than Sealed Lead Acid?
First of all Lithium battery technology has been used in various applications for 20+ years in Laptops, Smartphones, many portable devices and for the past 10+ years in electric vehicles. Lithium technology has progressed and is now safer, more stable and reliable with advancement of Lithium battery chemistry, cell design and built in battery management systems.
The Dakota Lithium and EcoFlow products we distribute are unique lithium chemistry called LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) and are 100% safe & reliable. Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4), does not contain rare earth elements (like Cobalt) or heavy metals, is non-toxic, including no lead or acid, is non-corrosive, does not off gas, requires no watering or maintenance, can be placed in any orientation, and will not explode or catch fire. In addition, each Dakota Lithium batteries and EcoFlow systems are protected from over heating, over charging, and short circuiting, by a battery management system (BMS) microchip that also extends the lifespan and is contained in a rugged, waterproof case (although enough water can conduct electricity between the terminals, so don’t submerse the battery).
Why are Lithium or LiFePO4 Batteries better than Lead Acid Batteries and More Expensive?
Compared to typical lead acid batteries, lithium ion (LiFePO4) chemistry allows for better energy density and efficiency. That means you can pack more lithium power in the same physical size as lead acid. Combine that with a super flat discharge curve and you get long lasting energy in a smaller package.
Lithium ions also speed up the rate of energy transfer which makes charging extremely quick. After a full morning of fishing, you can recharge and be ready to go for an evening session. To top it off, lithium batteries weigh about 60 percent less than similar lead acid batteries.
The best part of lithium ion batteries is their long lifespan. They have a 4 x longer life span. While lead acid typically gets 500 recharge cycles, a LiFePO4 battery is capable of over 2000 recharge cycles.
Here are all of the advantages to LiFePO4 when making the switch to lithium LiFePO4 from lead acid:
- Full power output throughout the discharge cycle
- 2 times more power than lead acid
- Less than half the weight for optimum portability. Take a load off your boat, car, truck, RV or mobility scooter.
- Exceptional operation in extreme environments (-20°F to over 120°F)
- Nearly zero maintenance (top off charge every couple months when not in use)
- 2000+ cycle life span
- Safe and environmentally friendly
