Kia Europe is partnering with Deutsche Bahn to reuse former EV batteries for more scalable energy storage systems, as reported by Electrek. The automaker is taking a step forward to a Europe-wide initiative as the prototype has already been implemented in Germany via Kia Soul EV batteries.
Deutsche Bahn has partnered up with several businesses in the past to collect used batteries and give them a second life. Now, its latest partner is the Korean automaker, whose EV batteries are already being used to power micro smart grids.
Less Strain on Europe Grids
The details of the partnership with encore DB were stated in a press release. It explained how the EV batteries will be dismantled and repurposed for a second life cycle. This puts Kia as the first mobility solutions provider to partner with encore DB with the aim to expand repurposed batteries throughout Europe.
It started with an initial prototype battery storage facility implemented at the EUREF-Campus in Berlin, Germany. The storage system consists of 24 battery modules that are made up of 14 double cells that are used in Kia Soul EVs.
These modules combine to form a Micro Smart Grid, a power grid where different energy sources are linked intelligently. The Integrated Battery Management System (BMS) helps balance the state of charge in every module by conducting passive or active voltage wherever and whenever necessary.
Jason Jeong, the president of Kia Europe, said, "With out success in the electrification of Kia models, we also take responsibility for the batteries beyond their lifetime in the car. The pioneering partnership between Kia and encore DB shows that we regard batteries as a valuable resource in terms of sustainable circular economy."
Currently, the prototype can provide 72 kWh of usable power to support time-shifting energy balance while also storing solar power.
Encore DB plans to expand EV battery recycling and maintain steadier and more predictable energy flows throughout Europe while also promoting more sustainable and renewable sources of power.
Also Read: Kia EV9: Automakers Tease the Electric Car Ahead of Showcase, Testing Now Underway
Kia Embraces Electrification
Kia, a member of the Hyundai Motor Group, has embraced electrification as it moves toward zero emissions throughout its businesses. Additionally, Kia and Hyundai Motor Group have invested in new technologies for more sustainable mobility.
One of the biggest challenges in EV adoption today is recycling EV batteries. To resolve the issue, a lot of major manufacturers and recycling specialists are helping reduce and reuse materials in the world.
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Written by April Fowell
