Design Considerations for a Li-Al/FeS Battery for an Electric Van

A study on battery-vehicle design interactions was performed jointly by Argonne National Laboratory and Toyota Motor Company. A Toyota Hi-Ace van converted to electric drive was used to model the performance of the vehicle.

Power train requirements were calculated on the basis of achieving performance equivalent to that of gasoline-engine or diesel-powered vehicles. Vehicle energy requirements were obtained by integrating the power required to complete a SAE J227a/D cycle. A weight analysis for the conversion was completed as well as a preliminary design to locate the batteries within the vehicle without encroaching upon passenger space

The power/energy ratio of the battery was determined as a function of the vehicle range. Specifications for the vehicle and battery for several cases of interest (e.g., gasoline or diesel type acceleration) are given.