Continental AG Selects Maxwell Technologies’ Ultracapacitors For Automotive Voltage Stabilization System

David Schramm, Maxwell’s president and chief executive officer, said that Continental’s VSS system stabilizes the auto’s electrical system and supports stop-start functionality for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. He said that Continental has advised the company to prepare for delivery of initial series production volumes of BOOSTCAP cells for new car models starting in 2010.

“This design win for a high-volume automotive application is another very significant milestone for Maxwell,” Schramm said. “As a leading Tier 1 supplier to the auto industry worldwide, Continental can drive very large volumes for our BOOSTCAP products in the years ahead.”

Stop-start systems reduce fuel consumption and emissions by shutting off the car’s internal combustion engine as the vehicle slows and seamlessly restarting the engine when the driver engages the clutch or touches the accelerator. In the VSS system, the ultracapacitor module provides burst power to re-start the engine, relieving the car’s battery of high currents and repeated cycling that can shorten battery life. It also provides a reservoir of power to ensure stable functioning of the vehicle’s electrical system when multiple power demands tax the system.

Schramm said that Maxwell is also working with other Tier 1 suppliers, automakers and heavy vehicle OEMs on ultracapacitor-based solutions for other electrical system applications and various hybrid and electric drive systems.

“We continue to focus on penetrating the large and strategically important automotive and transportation markets by aligning ourselves with industry leaders such as Continental and continuously strengthening our design, engineering and production capabilities,” Schramm said.