EFB Batteries Destined For BMW/Mini Oxford

Having recently expanded its ‘start-stop’ EFB range with the addition of three new popular part numbers, Banner Batteries has announced a major extension to the original equipment contract the Austrian manufacturer enjoys with the BMW Group.
 
In addition to continuing to supply the BMW Group with AGM batteries, from February of next year, Banner will supply its Running Bull EFB range with 65 and 75Ah rated capacities. From a UK perspective, whilst Banner will make deliveries to a total of four European locations, one of these will be the BMW/Mini manufacturing plant in Oxford. Indeed it is a contract that will run throughout 2018 and 2019 with an option to supply up to 2020.
 
As Banner’s Commercial CEO, Andreas Bawart, explains: “Many of our OEM customers have recently switched to EFB batteries as a cost-effective alternative to the AGM versions. This is in part due to the technical innovations that we have introduced which is making a significant contribution to a reduction in the CO2 emissions from modern vehicles.”
 
From a UK perspective, Banner’s Country Manager, Lee Quinney added: “The new BMW contract, particularly having its roots in the Oxford produced Mini, once again demonstrates the developing OE pedigree that Banner Batteries enjoys with such a leading manufacturer as the BMW Group. And whilst this obviously relates to an OEM contract, we know that the news will be welcomed by our aftermarket customers as it helps underline not only the quality of Banner’s product, but its relevance to the UK vehicle parc both now and in the future.”
 
EFB ON THE INCREASE
The recent rise in popularity of EFB batteries has emanated from innovative, technological developments that have helped position the product as an alternative to more complex and cost-intensive AGM technology. This has centred on the use of special additives, non-woven electrode sleeves, separators with minimum internal resistance and the utilisation of optimised, continuous cast mesh. And with virtually all new vehicles now featuring the start-stop function, with the increasing demands on their electrical systems and related energy supply, this is also lending additional impetus to the adoption of EFB technology. 
 
Furthermore, whilst lead-acid battery technology is mature, it is competitively priced and offers a high degree of recyclability. The enhanced flooded battery (EFB) is a strengthened wet battery that is used primarily for micro-hybrid drives, which save fuel by means of braking energy recuperation and an automatic start-stop function. Indeed both EFB and AGM technology represents a clear demonstration of Banner’s responsible approach to raw material conservation and sustainability. Moreover, the company’s trendsetting recycling loop, which facilitates the reemployment of every used battery, sets the benchmark for sustainable business practice moving forwards.