Saft’s ground breaking Li-ion cell technologies push operating temperatures to new extremes

• New “xtd” version of MP Integration^TM cell delivers high performance and reliability at temperatures from - 40°C to + 85°C with exceptional operating life
• New “xc” version delivers superior performance for operation in cold environments with temperatures as low as - 50˚C

Paris, November 4, 2014

Saft, the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of advanced technology batteries for industry, has announced two major breakthroughs in rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-ion) technology that enable its well proven MP (medium prismatic) Integration^TM series to deliver exceptional performance, operating life and reliability for industrial equipment even when operating in extremes of heat or cold. This crucial development overcomes the key limitations of conventional battery technologies and creates new opportunities for applications that previously could not be served cost-effectively with Li-ion batteries.

MP Integration^TM xtd technology for performance over extreme temperature ranges

Saft’s MP Integration^TM xtd series has been developed to ensure reliable, high performance power for outdoor industrial equipment in demanding applications including oil and gas, utility management, industrial automation, lighting and signaling, tracking and automotive telematics. The “xtd” range positions Saft as the only battery company with Li-ion technology capable of operating over the extreme temperature range typically encountered in industrial applications of – 40˚C to + 85 ˚C.

By combining compact size, wide operating temperature range and exceptional life when under permanent charge or daily cycling, Saft’s new Li-ion “xtd” technology is ideally suited to provide back-up power to outdoor industrial equipment. The MP Integration^TM xtd cells are targeted to meet the typical life expectancy of industrial equipment without the need for maintenance or battery replacement, and to offer the lowest Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

The cells offer the highest level of safety and comply with the requirements of the IEC60079-11 standard for intrinsic safety, meaning that they are designed for safe and reliable high-power performance even in potentially explosive atmospheres.

Two models are currently available: MP 174565 Integration^TM xtd offers a capacity of 4.0 Ah while the MP 176065 Integration^TM xtd has a 5.6 Ah capacity.

MP Integration^TM xc technology ensures reliable operation in even the coldest conditions

The low-temperature MP Integration^TM xc range is a cutting edge solution for unrivalled low temperature performance in defense systems, professional portable tools, oil and gas, and aerospace applications in extremely cold temperatures that can fall as low as - 50˚C.

The “xc” design provides a high voltage response when placed under significant load, preventing any risk of low voltage that can limit battery autonomy at low operating temperatures. They also offer a long cycle life and extended calendar life compared with conventional Li-ion cells.

Currently, the “xc” technology is available in the MP Integration^TM 176065 xc cell that provides a 6.4 Ah capacity.

Both the MP Integration^TM xtd and xc cells have a long shelf life, with low self discharge, that reduces the need for supervision and charging during storage.

Dr Jean-Paul Peres, Technical Director at Saft Specialty Battery Group said: “The capabilities of Saft’s MP series cells are well established in a wide variety of critical applications worldwide. Now, with the “xtd” and “xc” models we have raised the bar even further as the only battery manufacturer with Li-ion technology proven to deliver optimum performance and extended life in extreme temperatures, both hot or cold. These new cells illustrate Saft’s know-how in developing advanced and innovative Li-ion technologies to meet the high level of specifications from industrial and defence markets.”

The production ramp-up of the “xc” model has already started with first customers being served. For the “xtd” models, sampling of key customers will take place in the coming months, while production ramp-up is planned within the first half of 2015.

The “xtd” and “xc” range will be presented at European Utility Week (Amsterdam, Nov 4 – 6 # 1B-60), at Electronica (Munich, Nov 11 – 14 # B2-666) and Medica (Düsseldorf, Nov 12 -15 # 17-C24).

About Saft

Saft (Euronext: Saft) is a world leading designer and manufacturer of advanced technology batteries for industry. The Group is the world’s leading manufacturer of nickel batteries and primary lithium batteries for the industrial infrastructure and processes, transportation, civil and military electronics’ markets. Saft is the world leader in space and defence batteries with its Li-ion technologies which are also deployed in the energy storage, transportation and telecommunication network markets. More than 3,800 employees in 18 countries, 14 manufacturing sites and an extensive sales network all contribute to accelerating the Group’s growth for the future.

Saft batteries. Designed for industry.

www.saftbatteries.com

Press contacts:

Saft
Jill Ledger, Saft Corporate Communications and Institutional Relations Director
Tel: +33 1 49 93 17 77, e-mail : jill.ledger@saftbatteries.com

Christelle Nay, Saft SBG Communication Manager,
Tel: + 33 5 45 90 37 55, e-mail : christelle.nay@saftbatteries.com

Brunswick
Julien Trosdorf, Tel.: +33 1 53 96 83 95
Benoît Grange, Tel.: +33 1 53 96 83 89
e-mail: saft@brunswickgroup.com