Novelis creates first aluminum sheet battery enclosure for electric vehicle market

Atlanta-based Novelis Inc., a provider of aluminum rolling and recycling, has announced its development of the first aluminum sheet battery enclosure for the electric vehicle and battery markets.

Built with Novelis Advanz™ aluminum products and part of the Novelis Alumineering® collection of designs for the automotive industry, the enclosure is up to 50 percent lighter than an equivalent steel design. It enables more than 160 watt-hours/kg for OEMs and Tier 1 battery pack manufacturers. It can accommodate all battery cell types and is designed particularly for battery electric vehicles with larger power packs such as pick-up trucks, SUVs, and crossovers.

The battery enclosure can be deep drawn into complex shapes to specific vehicle design requirements. The lightweight, high-strength material can help extend range, allowing vehicles to go 6 to 10 percent further on a single charge, according to the company.