Dual sourcing as a safety anchor
An important component in making this possible is our unique dual sourcing strategy for the central components of our batteries. For lithium-ion cells, this means that we closely monitor the international cell market, identify several suitable cell alternatives - usually as early as the product development phase - and carefully put them through their paces.
We rely on continuous single cell testing in our in-house laboratory as a technical basis for cell selection. This is because not every new cell that appears suitable on paper automatically meets our high requirements in terms of performance, safety and durability.
Benchmarking at cell level - the first step
As part of cell benchmarking, we subject each selected cell to a multi-stage, standardized test process, which can be run through in full or in part. The first stage typically consists of performance tests, such as measuring the discharge capacity at different temperatures and discharge rates. The tests provide initial information about the basic performance - especially in realistic application scenarios.
We pay particular attention to the behavior in the limit range, which in the example mentioned would be particularly low or high temperatures and high loads.
This is often where true quality reveals itself, and only cells that perform reliably under extreme conditions are considered suitable for series production.
High-tech cycler for precise insights
Testing is carried out using state-of-the-art technology: our laboratory uses a special cycler with a voltage range of up to 5 volts - ideal for analyzing single cells or single-cell batteries. Each channel of the device can be operated with up to 30 amps. For even higher requirements, several channels can be connected in parallel - up to 300 amps are possible. In combination with multi-channel climate chambers, we have a versatile test system whose flexibility and scalability allow us to test a wide range of battery cells in a short time under a wide variety of conditions.
Why single cell testing is so important
By identifying and validating alternative cells at an early stage, we create security of supply - even in the event of short-term market changes or supply bottlenecks. At the same time, our customers benefit from consistently high product quality without compromising on performance or safety.
And last but not least, our single cell testing shortens the development times for new products. This is because once we have successfully qualified a new cell, it is immediately ready for use in different systems - a real advantage in a highly competitive market environment.
Conclusion
Single Cell Testing is much more than a technical testing process - it is a central component of our quality and future strategy. In combination with our dual sourcing policy, it ensures that our customers can rely on their energy supply at all times. Safe, powerful and available in the long term - no matter what happens on the cell market.