The market for micro-hybrid and mild-hybrid vehicles is on track to grow nearly eightfold to 39 million vehicles in 2017, driving a $6.9 billion market for energy storage devices. Unlike full hybrids, micro-hybrids Mild hybrids improve fuel efficiency by assisting the engine.
Automakers largely remain committed to advanced lead-acid batteries as the primary solution of choice for micro-hybrids, which draw on the battery only to power start-stop systems or cabin electronics. But their preference depends very much on regional issues as well as the manufacturer’s strategy.
As this week’s graphic shows, the overall storage market for micro-hybrids, including replacements, will grow from under $1 billion in 2011, to $6.9 billion in 2017, a CAGR of 48%. Most of this growth will be powered by sales of two lead-acid battery classes: absorbed glass mat (AGM) and enhanced flooded (EFB) devices.
AGM battery technology will lead the pack, with 46% annual growth reaching $3.9 billion in 2017. Europe’s preference for AGM batteries a favorable view of the technology among U.S. automakers will drive most of the growth. In contrast, Japanese automakers largely prefer EFB technology, and will help fuel significant growth through 2017, when it will reach $2.1 billion.
Supercapacitors have attracted interest for their superior power density, something that neither AGM nor EFB batteries deliver as well. As both PSA and Mazda implement the technology in their vehicles, the market will expand from $16.9 million in 2011 to $287 million in 2017, a CAGR of 60%.
Meanwhile, Li-ion will carve out a niche in mild hybrids, growing from near zero to reach nearly $570 million in 2017, capturing a 47% market share among plug-in vehicles.
Source: Lux Research report “Every Last Drop: Micro- And Mild Hybrids Drive a Huge Market for Fuel-Efficient Vehicles.”
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