Automotive supplier Marelli has announced a significant order to supply around five million units of its Battery Thermal Plate (BTP) for future battery electric vehicles (BEVs) from a major global car manufacturer. The deliveries are scheduled to commence this year.
The order includes various vehicle platforms and segments for the Chinese, North American, and European markets, according to Marelli. While the customer remains unnamed in the press release, the scale of the order suggests involvement with large corporations such as the Volkswagen Group, Stellantis, or General Motors.
Marelli’s Battery Thermal Plate is a critical component of the battery’s thermal management system, providing efficient heat exchange between the cells and the plate. The flat design of the plate allows for more space in the battery housing and facilitates integration. Marelli’s ‘Dot Dimples’ design, which consists of specifically positioned indentations, optimizes thermal flows and stabilizes the temperature of the battery cells, enhancing performance and longevity.
“The thermal management of a battery in an electric car is very important,” said Shuji Kobayashi, President of Marelli’s Green Technology Solutions division. “Through our solid experience and comprehensive portfolio, we support OEMs in achieving the most efficient solutions for electric, hybrid and internal combustion engine vehicles, adapting to their specific needs to co-create with our customers their vehicles of tomorrow.”
Marelli’s production facilities for the Battery Thermal Plate are strategically located close to the three main markets in China, Mexico, and Romania for Europe. This proximity allows for efficient delivery and customization of the thermal plates to meet the requirements of different battery types and geometries.