Panasonic Launches Automotive Backup Power Supply with Double Layer Capacitors

The 3rd EV·HEV Drive System Technology Exhibition and the 4th International Auto Electronic Technology Exhibition was held on January 18-20 at the Tokyo International Convention and Exhibition Center. Panasonic’s electronic components were introduced at this exhibition. The car is equipped with an electric double layer capacitor, which is intended for emergency use when the lead battery is damaged due to an accident. The product is scheduled for commercialization in 2014.

It is understood that most automobiles are equipped with automatic door-locking functions during driving. If the lead-acid battery is stopped due to accidents and the power supply is stopped, the door lock cannot be released, and the driver cannot get out of the vehicle. With this development, the electric power stored in the electric double layer capacitor can be used to release the door lock in case of an emergency and to allow the electronic control unit (ECU) and emergency communicator to operate. The electric double layer capacitor will be produced by Matsushita Electronic Components. The backup power supply developed uses two units with a capacity of approximately 100F and a voltage of less than 5V. The DC-DC converter boosts the voltage to 5V to 12V and supplies the electric device to the vehicle. The weight is about 50g and the external dimensions are 60x27x90mm.

It is reported that double-layer capacitors have a longer life than rechargeable batteries. Even if you drive your car every time you charge it, you can use it for about 15 years, so you don't need to replace it like a rechargeable battery.