Stellantis IBIS Tech Promises 10% EV Range Boost

Stellantis, an automotive manufacturer, is reportedly testing a novel battery technology known as the Intelligent Battery Integrated System (IBIS). This innovation has the potential to substantially improve the performance and efficiency of electric vehicles. The IBIS system aims to streamline electric vehicle powertrains by integrating power conversion electronics directly at the battery cell level. This design eliminates the need for separate AC-DC inverters and onboard chargers. According to project leaders Francis Roy, IBIS Product Manager, and Clement Dumand, Director of Breakthrough Programmes, IBIS employs an 'H bridge' circuit. This circuit allows for the direct conversion of DC output from individual cells or cell groups into three-phase AC power required by the electric motor. This distributed conversion approach is anticipated to boost overall battery efficiency by 10%, which directly translates to a 10% increase in vehicle range. Stellantis asserts that despite the incorporation of additional circuitry near the battery, the IBIS system achieves a lower total battery pack weight compared to conventional systems that utilize a separate inverter. This reduction in weight, coupled with optimized space utilization, further enhances vehicle efficiency. The IBIS technology is presented as a notable advancement within the automotive industry, alongside other critical developments such as new battery chemistries and integration methodologies.