A Swiss engineering team, part of the Leclanché company, has developed a revolutionary lithium-ion battery technology that promises to redefine high-intensity electric mobility. The new battery, called XN50, uses a unique niobium-based anode, developed and patented as XNO, bringing significant benefits in energy density and endurance under extreme conditions.
Why is the XN50 a turning point?
The niobium-based anode technology offers 50% higher energy density than the lithium-titanate-oxide (LTO) batteries previously used by Leclanché. While LTO technology, known for its high cycle life, offered an energy density of around 100 Wh/kg, the XN50 reaches 150 Wh/kg, putting it at the lower end of the battery parameters for modern electric cars. However, the XN50 excels in other aspects essential for high-intensity applications such as electric ships, trains, specialized trucks and other industrial vehicles.
Impressive performance
What really sets the XN50 battery apart from other technologies is its durability and resistance to extreme conditions. Swiss engineers say their battery can withstand 10,000 charge and discharge cycles with less than 3% degradation. This means long-lasting performance in demanding environments, making the battery suitable for vehicles and equipment operating in harsh working conditions. In addition, even when subjected to 1,000 cycles at double power (2C) and high temperatures up to 45 degrees Celsius, the XN50 battery maintains its performance. After these extreme tests, the battery’s internal resistance increases by only 15%, a clear indicator of its robustness and reliability.
Advantages of XNO technology
The niobium-based anode, XNO, is the key to this exceptional performance. This proprietary composition provides a unique combination of energy efficiency and durability under demanding conditions, a balance difficult to achieve with current technologies. Compared to LTO technology, which was already designed for high-intensity operations, XN50 offers an improved solution for applications where cycle life and high temperature endurance are critical.
A solution for the future of electric mobility
This innovation opens up new opportunities for industries requiring sustainable and efficient energy storage solutions. Applications in electric shipping, rail or heavy-duty trucks are just a few examples where the XN50 could make a difference. In addition, these batteries could accelerate the transition to electric mobility in areas requiring high reliability and low operational costs.
With its XNO technology, Leclanché strengthens its leading position in the development of innovative solutions for electric mobility. With the XN50, the company not only improves energy efficiency, but also offers a sustainable solution ready to meet the demands of the future.