Metis has tackled the issue of unnecessary scrapping of used EVs
Metis, a leading expert in battery sensor technology, has tackled the issue of unsustainable and unnecessary scrapping of used EVs
Metis Engineering, a leading expert in battery sensor technology, has tackled the issue of unsustainable and unnecessary scrapping of used EVs due to the automotive market's limited access to vehicle battery health data.
The company emphasized the lack of transparent information regarding electric vehicle battery health, which prevents consumers, dealers, and insurers from accurately assessing the condition of the battery, resulting in the unnecessary scrapping of EVs even after minor collisions.
Until now, the used EV market has lacked an effective method to provide consumers with clear data on the health of a vehicle's battery. As a result, insurance companies face uncertainty when evaluating potential battery damage, often leading to conservative write-offs, even if the vehicles have only traveled a few miles. This practice not only increases insurance premiums for consumers but also contributes to unnecessary waste, undermining the principles of the circular economy that underpin the EV industry.
Metis Engineering has developed Cell Guard to address this problem. This innovative solution, the first of its kind in the market, is a CAN-based sensor that can be easily integrated into almost any battery system. It features an accelerometer capable of measuring shock load and duration up to +/-24G.
The compact unit, similar in size to a matchbox, is a unique sensor that provides accurate and detailed information on the health of a lithium-ion battery pack. It relays shock data through a configurable CAN interface to a control unit, such as the vehicle's ECU. This allows for a deeper understanding of the battery's condition for repurposing, recycling, and handling insurance claims.
This information can revolutionize the resale market for used EVs, providing buyers with crucial clarity to make informed decisions regarding the battery pack's condition and maintenance requirements.
Joe Holdsworth, CEO of Metis Engineering, stated, "The unknown risk of poor EV battery health is one of the major barriers hindering the growth of the used electric vehicle market. By providing consumers and insurers with unprecedented insights into battery health, Cell Guard empowers informed decision-making while minimizing uncertainties related to minor collision damage. It is a game-changing solution that bridges the gap between insurers, consumers, and the EV industry."
Developed following ISO26262 processes and certified to ISO Automotive Standards, Cell Guard is manufactured in the UK under strict quality-controlled conditions to fulfill orders from an increasing number of OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, where it is used in ASIL B applications.
Cell Guard is also capable of detecting cell venting, an early sign of catastrophic battery failure, significantly reducing the risk of thermal runaway. Unlike current battery cell monitoring systems (BMS) that typically only offer temperature and voltage sensors, Cell Guard monitors a range of environmental parameters necessary to ensure optimal battery operation, including VOCs, pressure changes, humidity, and dew point.
With Cell Guard, Metis Engineering is setting a new standard for advanced battery health monitoring in EVs and energy storage systems.
