Silver News

New Silver-Alloy Car Battery Made for Tough Conditions

European auto battery maker Varta has introduced a silver-alloy battery that promises up to 20 percent longer service life and reliable starting power at temperature extremes.

The company said that it tested the new silver technology in taxis in Las Vegas heat and found that it lasted twice as long as conventional batteries. Varta also says that its Silver Dynamic battery gives 30 percent more cold-starting power than other batteries in extremely low temperatures.

The battery is already being installed in higher end models of Audi, BMW, Citroen, Ford, Peugeot, Saab and Volvo.

The reason why the new lead-calcium-silver alloy battery gives superior performance is that it doesn't suffer from grid corrosion and water loss like conventional batteries, the company notes. Corrosion and water loss are particularly pronounced at temperature extremes. In addition, new cars must handle many more electrical demands than past models including air bags, high performance sound systems and electronic engine components. These additional demands also shorten battery life.

Silver News - June/July 1999