Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has teamed up with energy storage start-up Allye Energy to introduce a new portable battery system, Allye MAX BESS, utilizing second-life batteries from its plug-in hybrid vehicles. The innovative system serves as buffer storage for fast-charging stations, offering a sustainable solution for energy storage and distribution.
The Allye MAX BESS system incorporates seven second-life battery packs from Range Rover and Range Rover Sport PHEV vehicles, boasting a total capacity of 270 kWh. Despite being labeled as “portable,” the system’s design allows it to be transported to its deployment location on a car trailer, as showcased in press photos.
JLR emphasizes the ease of integration of the second-life batteries into custom racks, without the need for extensive processing. Once installed, the energy stored in these batteries can power a connected CCS charging station. The system can operate off-grid until the batteries are depleted or can be connected to renewable energy sources or the power grid through “multi-input connectivity.” This versatility allows the Allye MAX BESS to function as a stationary storage unit, powering DC fast chargers with an AC grid connection or using temporarily stored energy from renewable sources.
The automotive giant plans to use the Allye MAX BESS system during upcoming test drives of the Range Rover Electric, slated for unveiling later this year. The system will replace diesel generators previously used for off-grid charging of test vehicles or during product launches in remote areas. According to JLR, using a diesel generator for three hours a day emits approximately 129 kilograms of CO2. By using the second-life storage system for more than 1,000 hours, JLR anticipates an annual reduction of over 15 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Francois Dossa, Managing Director of Strategy and Sustainability at JLR, highlighted the company’s commitment to circular business models, stating, “Our Reimagine strategy is all about shifting our mindset to consider circular over linear business models. This battery innovation and partnership with Allye demonstrates the value we can create from repurposing and reusing batteries, such as from our Range Rover vehicles.”
Jonathan Träger, CEO of Allye Energy, echoed this sentiment, saying, “Our collaboration with JLR exemplifies a shared commitment to sustainable innovation, driving us closer to a future powered by clean energy solutions. The deployment of Range Rover PHEV batteries in the MAX underscores Allye’s agnostic approach to integrating batteries from different models, of different states of health (SoH), and cell chemistries to maximize efficiency and sustainability.”
The partnership between JLR and Allye Energy signifies a significant step toward sustainable energy solutions, showcasing the potential of repurposing used batteries for eco-friendly energy storage and distribution.
