Clarios, a $10 billion company headquartered in Glendale, Wisconsin and parent company to several battery brands, has a major production facility in Hannover, Germany that makes batteries for both commercial and passenger vehicles, and Clean Trucking was given an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour while in the country for IAA Transportation 2024.
The Hannover plant is a state-of-the-art facility that's capable of producing one battery every minute, totaling 300,000 batteries annually. One of the many unique things about Clarios is that it takes a chemistry-agnostic assembly line approach, meaning it can make several types of lithium-ion batteries based on customers' requirements.
David Patel, vice president of low voltage systems, spoke to Senior Editor Jay Traugott about the production process and what sets Clarios apart from its competitors.
When it coms to commercial trucking, Clarios' lithium-ion system is tough enough to handle the harsh vibrations of over-the-road transportation. This system also integrates easily with all safety and autonomous-driving functions. The added performance allows for overnight stays without idling and powers the low-voltage network, enabling cabin creature comforts like over-the-air software updates.
More recently, Clarios announced plans to launch a 24-volt lithium-ion battery specifically for heavy-duty applications. For now, this battery will only be offered in Europe through VARTA Automotive but Clarios isn't ruling out expanding this market in the future.
[Related: Clarios developing 24V lithium-ion batteries for HD semis]
Clarios recently hinted that there's more news to come about the next stage of its battery development. What this will mean for the commercial trucking industry remains a mystery for now. Until then, learn more about Clarios and its production process from Mr. Patel.
