Ford Slashes Use of Rare-Earth Elements in New Hybrid System
Ford says its third-generation hybrid system could reduce its use of expensive rare-earth metals up to 500,000 lbs. (226,796 kg) per year.
Reducing the amount of rare-earth metals in the battery pack has both financial and performance benefits. Ford was able to slash the cost of the battery pack 30% vs. the outgoing unit, and the Li-ion batteries are 50% lighter and 25%-30% smaller than the NiMH batteries they replace.
Ford says the weight reduction allowed the Fusion and C-Max hybrids to achieve 45 mpg (5.2L 100/km) and 47 mpg (5.0L 100/km), respectively, in combined city/highway driving.
Among the rare-earth metals used in NiMH batteries are neodymium, cerium, lanthanum and praseodymium, none of which are required in the new Li-ion packs.
http://wardsauto.com/auto-makers/ford-s ... c4enews=42
More dysprosium for your grandkids to waste
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- Master Standardshifter
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More dysprosium for your grandkids to waste
'08 Jeep Liberty 6-Speed MT - "Last of the Mohicans"